The National Security Agency (NSA) is set to remove 27 specific words related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) from its websites and internal networks, sparking controversy and potential operational challenges.
At a Glance
- NSA to remove 27 DEI-related words from websites and internal networks
- Action follows President Trump’s order to eliminate DEI programs and language
- Removal may affect mission-related work and cause unintended consequences
- Other federal agencies are also removing DEI references from their websites
- Move raises concerns about diversity and inclusion in national security organizations
NSA’s “Big Delete” Operation
The National Security Agency is undertaking a significant purge of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) language from its official websites and internal networks. This sweeping action, dubbed the “Big Delete” operation, is set to occur on February 10, as per a memo obtained by Popular Information. The move comes in response to President Trump’s Executive Order to eliminate DEI programs and language across federal agencies.
The list of 27 banned words includes terms such as “Anti-Racism,” “Bias,” “DEI,” “Diversity,” and “Inclusion.” However, the NSA clarifies that this is not a “banned words” list but rather a tool for identifying content that needs updates or removal. Despite this clarification, the removal of these terms is causing significant disruption within the agency.
Impact on NSA Operations
The purge is not without its challenges. According to anonymous sources within the NSA, the process is “very chaotic” and is affecting mission-related work. The dragnet approach is taking down content beyond just DEI-related materials, impacting internal network pages and project management software. In an attempt to mitigate unintended consequences, the NSA is working to identify “mission-related sites” to prevent accidental removal of crucial information.
The removal of DEI language is not limited to the NSA. Other federal agencies, including the Department of Education and the Department of Justice, have also begun removing DEI references from their websites. In December, the FBI closed its DEI office, signaling a broader shift in the federal government’s approach to diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Trump’s Stance on DEI
President Trump has been vocal about his opposition to DEI policies, labeling them as “illegal” and detrimental to national unity. His executive order on January 21 set the stage for this widespread removal of DEI language across federal agencies.
The impact of this policy change extends beyond the NSA and other federal agencies. An analysis found 662 examples of deletions and additions on federal web pages, with DEI-related terms removed 231 times. This widespread alteration of government websites reflects a significant shift in how federal agencies communicate about diversity and inclusion.
The changes could affect recruitment practices and the overall culture within the organization. As the NSA plays a crucial role in national security, the implications of this shift in policy and communication strategy may have far-reaching consequences for the diversity of perspectives and experiences within the intelligence community.
