Rep. Jasmine Crockett’s fiery defense of DEI programs exposes the deep divide in Congress over America’s racial history and future.
At a Glance
- Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-TX) passionately defended DEI programs against the “Dismantle DEI Act” in Congress
- The Act, proposed by Republicans, aims to eliminate all federal DEI programs and roles
- Crockett argued that white men have not faced true oppression in America’s history
- She highlighted the underrepresentation of Black women in Congress, being only the 55th elected
- The bill passed the House Oversight Committee along party lines, 23-17
Crockett’s Impassioned Defense Ignites Debate
In a heated House Oversight Committee hearing, Rep. Jasmine Crockett (D-Texas) unleashed a blistering critique of the “Dismantle DEI Act,” a Republican-led initiative aimed at gutting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs across federal agencies. Crockett’s impassioned response to what she perceived as a misuse of the term “oppression” by her Republican colleagues has thrust the contentious debate over DEI initiatives into the national spotlight.
The Texas Democrat took particular issue with Rep. Clay Higgins (R-La.) and other white male colleagues who she felt were mischaracterizing the concept of oppression in American history. Crockett’s frustration was palpable as she delivered a history lesson on the floor of Congress, challenging her peers to recognize the stark differences between historical injustices faced by minorities and the perceived grievances of white men in America today.
Democratic lawmaker Jasmine Crockett rants about ‘the white man’ during a hearing on the Dismantle DEI Act https://t.co/wVDWSMUP9h pic.twitter.com/XbdgQBJ8zV
— New York Post (@nypost) November 21, 2024
The Heart of the Controversy
At the core of this heated exchange is H.R. 8706, known as the Dismantle DEI Act of 2024. This Republican-backed legislation seeks to eliminate all federal DEI programs and roles, reflecting a growing conservative pushback against what they view as divisive and discriminatory practices. The bill’s proponents, including Rep. Michael Cloud, argue that DEI initiatives waste taxpayer dollars and undermine merit-based principles.
However, Crockett and her Democratic colleagues view this legislation as a dangerous step backward in the fight for equality and representation. They argue that DEI programs are essential for leveling the playing field and addressing systemic biases that continue to plague American institutions.
A Stark Reminder of Underrepresentation
In her powerful rebuke, Crockett highlighted the disparity in representation within Congress itself. She pointed out that while white men make up only 30% of the U.S. population, they hold over 60% of elected offices. In contrast, Crockett emphasized her own historic position as only the 55th Black woman ever elected to Congress, underscoring the ongoing struggle for diversity in America’s highest legislative body.
“I can’t even tell you how many white men have served in this chamber. But I can tell you that I am only the 55th black woman to be elected to Congress,” Crockett said. “And so when you want to talk about history and pretend as if it was so long ago, it wasn’t. Because again, I am just number 55.”
The Road Ahead
While the Dismantle DEI Act passed the House Oversight Committee along party lines with a 23-17 vote, its future remains uncertain. With Democrats controlling the Senate and President Biden in office, the bill faces significant hurdles before becoming law. However, its very existence and the passionate debate it has sparked serve as a clear indication of the deep ideological divide that continues to shape American politics and policy.
