The protest in Jefferson City, Missouri, is a part of a nationwide movement pushing back against the Trump administration’s stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.
About 100 protesters gathered on the South Capitol Lawn, voicing their opposition to what they see as an attack on DEI initiatives, particularly following recent actions by politicians like Senator Eric Schmitt.
Schmitt introduced the “Dismantle DEI Act,” aimed at eliminating DEI programs within government agencies, schools, and businesses. Protesters, including Dan Schafer, expressed concerns that DEI is being misused as a tool to advance Republican political agendas.
Missouri’s response has already been seen at state universities, with institutions like the University of Missouri, Missouri State University, and Northwest Missouri State ending their DEI programs. Lawmakers in Jefferson City are also pushing for further dismantling of DEI initiatives across the state.