Published on foxnews.com
Clackamas County officials have moved to dismantle their Equity, Diversity & Inclusion (DEI) office, arguing it cost nearly $1 million annually and fostered division rather than harmony Fox News. Commissioner Ben West described the office as counterproductive, asserting that government must prioritize “merit, fairness, and equality” rather than “racializing the workplace” Fox News. He stated the county will reassign staff and redirect resources toward initiatives that respect all employees while focusing on ideas and performance Fox News. West also emphasized valuing individuals based on their “spark” rather than immutable traits such as race or orientation Fox News. The decision, supported by fellow Commissioner Mark Shull, signals a shift in Clackamas County’s approach to equity — toward inclusion rooted in respect, not identity quotas. This move aligns with Ben’s philosophy: government should empower people via outcome-oriented policies, not divisive identity-based frameworks.
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