NASA Ends Ex-DEI Chief’s Role Amid Government Policy ShifT
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In a significant personnel decision, NASA has terminated the employment of Neela Rajendra, the former Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Officer at its Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). This move comes as part of broader government-mandated changes that have stirred debate across federal agencies.
Background: The DEI Crackdown
The Trump administration’s Executive Order 14151 requires federal agencies to eliminate DEI programs and related positions. While NASA officially shut down its DEI department last year, Rajendra had remained at the agency, transitioning to a new position titled Chief of the Office of Team Excellence and Employee Success. Her reassigned duties were believed to include similar diversity-related responsibilities, raising questions about compliance with the order.
What Happened to Neela Rajendra?
As NASA moved to align fully with the executive order, Rajendra’s role was eliminated. Her dismissal marks a complete end to formal DEI leadership at NASA, following earlier layoffs of nearly 900 employees involved in diversity initiatives. Rajendra had previously spearheaded projects like the “Space Workforce 2030” pledge, which aimed to improve representation of women and minorities in the aerospace sector. Her departure underscores the shift away from structured DEI frameworks within federal science and research institutions.
What the Executive Order Entails
Signed by President Trump in 2023, Executive Order 14151 mandates:
The dissolution of DEI-focused offices and initiatives.
The removal of related content from federal websites and communications.
A step-by-step dismantling of any remaining DEI infrastructure, including the termination of employees associated with these efforts.
The administration has argued that these steps are necessary to ensure hiring is based solely on merit, without considerations that could be viewed as discriminatory or divisive. Opponents, however, believe the changes undermine progress toward a more inclusive and representative workforce.
