Maine federal employee spearheads class-action lawsuit against Trump administration
A federal worker from Maine has taken the lead in a class-action lawsuit against the Trump administration regarding Executive Orders pertaining to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The American Civil Liberties Union of the District of Columbia filed the complaint on behalf of these federal employees, alleging violations of the First Amendment and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. The lead plaintiff, Mahri Stáinnak, who serves at the Office of Personnel Management in Maine, along with other affected employees, seeks reinstatement, backpay, and compensation for damages incurred.
Stáinnak expressed a desire to return to work and fulfill their public service duties while supporting their families, emphasizing the importance of continuing the vital missions for the country. The lawsuit claims that President Trump’s Executive Orders 14151 and 14173 resulted in the termination of DEI-related government activities and placed DEI workers on paid leave with the intention of shutting down those offices. The orders required federal agencies to compile lists of existing DEI programs by November 4, 2024.
President Trump defended these actions by stating that the nation would be based on merit, aiming to uphold and recognize the dedication and hard work of federal employees. Stáinnak, highlighting the exemplary qualities of their colleagues, expressed concern over the detrimental impact of the administration’s targeting of employees associated with DEI. The lawsuit argues that the administration’s actions infringed upon employees’ rights and sought to penalize them for their perceived political views.
Stáinnak’s tenure in the federal government spanned 16 years, initially focusing on environmental protection at the Environmental Protection Agency and later working on policies for LGBTQ workers at OPM. In 2022, Stáinnak assumed the role of deputy director of OPM’s Office of DEIA, followed by a position in the Talent Innovation Group. The complaint outlines the unjust termination of Stáinnak due to an incorrect interpretation of their position title and association with DEI-related activities.
The lawsuit condemns the administration’s discriminatory targeting of employees based on their involvement with DEI initiatives, regardless of their current job responsibilities. Such actions are deemed unconstitutional and an infringement on employees’ freedom of expression. The ACLU-D.C.’s legal director emphasized that the administration’s motives were driven by a desire to suppress differing viewpoints, echoing a dark chapter in history where individuals were punished for their beliefs.
In conclusion, the class-action lawsuit led by the Maine federal worker against the Trump administration sheds light on the unlawful targeting of employees associated with DEI initiatives. The fight for justice and the protection of employees’ rights remains paramount in ensuring a fair and inclusive work environment for all.
