Under the role of President Donald J. Trump all diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and efforts have been removed and made illegal for all federal departments, under the belief that these efforts are “dangerous, demeaning, and immoral race- and sex-based.” 

Many corporations have made efforts to terminate their DEI programs and policies as a result of Trump’s actions. To combat these efforts, those against the removal of DEI efforts have been boycotting corporations such as these and have been choosing to spend their money on corporations that actively take DEI measures and local businesses. 

The active protest through boycotting against these companies is crucial.

Regardless of if one supports the idea of DEI policies or doesn’t, the ability to protest has and always will be important. Not only does cutting back from these major corporations take away from supporting them and their anti-DEI ways, it also boosts the revenue for more inclusive, local and small businesses, as prior customers will switch over to these in result of protest. Through giving less money to huge companies, local economies are boosted. 

Efforts such as these can be carried out by anyone. Everyone has the power to choose to avoid spending money at certain stores. There is no danger associated with boycotting companies either, as it is something one can do in private. 

For those who participate in boycotting, but feel it is not enough, there are many other ways to combat the anti-DEI efforts that have recently been made. Some examples include- spreading the word through mouth or social media, participating in economic blackout days and doing active research on which companies to avoid.  

During times like these, when rights are stripped away, using the first amendment right, which ensures freedom of peaceful protest, is the solution. There is no way the people can undo what has been done, but through protest, the people can make others realize their wrongdoings.