Health workers are expressing fear and alarm after a website called “DEI Watch List” published the photos, names, and public information of workers in health agencies, mostly Black employees, labeling them as “targets.” This website lists workers who have participated in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, donated to Democrats, or used pronouns in their bios as “offenses.” The website, circulated among federal health workers, is seen as a scare tactic to intimidate those doing admirable work and is deemed racist by some, including Dr. Georges Benjamin. The site has caused concerns about safety for those listed, who fear for their privacy and security.
The American Accountability Foundation, a conservative watchdog group, is behind the website, which is not the first time they have targeted individuals focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The recent harsh directives from the Department of Health and Human Services to CDC employees to terminate connections to diversity, equity, and inclusion have created fear and panic among workers. Some employees have been placed on administrative leave for perceived infractions related to the directives, causing paranoia and uncertainty among workers.
Despite the harassment and threats, public health workers remain committed to their work, even in the face of aggressive and threatening memos. The hostile environment has created a sense of urgency among workers to stay compliant with directives to avoid consequences. The actions of groups like the American Accountability Foundation, along with the directives from HHS, have created a climate of fear and uncertainty among federal health workers, but they express a dedication to continuing their important public health work despite the challenges.
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