A new online “DEI Watchlist” has triggered heated debate after public health advocates sounded the alarm it could be used to intimidate and discredit federal employees working on diversity and equity initiatives.
The list, compiled by the conservative American Accountability Foundation, singles out at least 57 public health officials, many of whom are women and Black professionals.
The website, newly launched, names, pictures, salaries, and other details from career federal workers, but specifically for a section in the Department of Health and Human Services; boasts of exposing individuals behind “drive radical DEI initiatives” within government.
Originally saying listed employees as “targets”, the group clarified it is referring to them as “dossiers,” but argues the intention remains not to issue threats but an assurance of “political alignment”.
American Public Health Association Executive Director Georges Benjamin condemned this sharply as a bid to “threaten, intimidate, and scare” health professionals committed to the goal of equity.
Benjamin warned that these tactics might force many to desist from much-needed work in such areas.
The American Accountability Foundation denies doing any harm with the list; they say they are simply pointing out to policy makers who would advance DEI programs. Yet, critics worry that this was a dangerous precedence that could create an erosion in public health.
Many in public health remain unbowed, despite the controversy brewing around them as they vow to continue their work.
