Union official says Education Department employees were placed on leave after taking diversity training during Trump’s first term

Dozens of employees at the Education Department were placed on paid administrative leave as part of the Trump administration’s efforts to eliminate diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility initiatives, according to sources familiar with the situation. At least 55 employees were notified of their leave, including senior-level workers, as stated by the American Federation of Government Employees.

The White House directed government agencies to notify employees associated with DEIA offices of their leave, effective immediately, according to guidance from the Office of Personnel and Management.

Union President Sheria Smith reported that the employees placed on leave had attended mandatory diversity training during the first Trump administration, as well as similar training under the Biden administration.