The Trump administration has rescinded a long-standing rule prohibiting federal contractors from maintaining segregated facilities, such as separate restrooms, waiting areas, and drinking fountains, according to a General Services Administration (GSA) memo first reported by NPR.
While the Civil Rights Act of 1964 still prohibits segregation in public accommodations, critics say the administration’s decision sends a dangerous message about the government’s commitment to civil rights enforcement.
The change follows Trump’s repeal of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s 1965 executive order requiring federal contractors to implement affirmative action and refrain from employment discrimination.
The Department of Homeland Security and the National Institutes of Health have already issued notices instructing officials not to include the segregation ban in future contracts.
Civil rights advocates warn the decision could embolden companies to discriminate without fear of consequences, particularly against racial minorities and LGBTQ+ individuals.
“As our nation becomes more polarized, the last thing we need is anything that could be perceived as allowing racial segregation,” said Ibrahim Hooper of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR).
Sources
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