Washington County Resolves to Support Trump's DEI Crackdown

A Delicate Balance: Oregon County Navigates Federal Pressure

After weeks of intense debate, Washington County in Oregon has reached a compromise to align with Trump-era executive orders that threaten to cut off federal funding over diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. The county’s Board of Commissioners approved a resolution and guiding principles aimed at ensuring compliance with state and federal laws while promoting "access and opportunity." Notably, the resolution avoids using the terms "diversity," "equity," or "inclusion" — a deliberate choice to maintain access to over $135 million in federal funds.

Chair Kathryn Harrington emphasized the necessity of the step, acknowledging differing opinions among residents and commissioners. “Some of you may not agree with the actual circumstances we’re facing. That’s OK. Some of you may not agree with our course of action tonight. That, too, is OK,” she said.

The resolution was introduced in response to Trump’s executive orders, which threatened to withhold federal contracts and grants from local governments, schools, and private entities that support diversity and inclusion programs. Initially, the board considered overturning a 2020 resolution requiring the county to strengthen equity and inclusion in its practices. However, this plan faced strong opposition from residents and Commissioner Nafisa Fai, leading to a revised approach.

The new resolution mandates that the county create an accessible environment for people of all backgrounds and reaffirms its commitment to upholding key anti-discrimination laws, including the Civil Rights Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act. It also requires the county administrator to review programs twice a year to ensure they meet legal standards.

County officials paused signing any federal contracts or grants until the resolution was finalized. Several critical programs, such as housing assistance, health services for mothers and children, and community grants, were at risk under the executive orders.

Fai supported the new resolution but expressed concerns about the broader implications of the federal government’s influence on local jurisdictions. She warned that the executive orders could affect nonprofits and organizations working with the county. “Local government has a duty to stand between vulnerable communities and systems of harm,” she said. “These orders were never subject to full public debate and often contradict Oregon state law and Washington County’s values.”

The meeting was marked by heated discussions and passionate public testimony. Fai proposed adding language acknowledging Oregon’s sanctuary laws, but the proposal was rejected by commissioners. The crowd reacted with boos, highlighting the deep divisions within the community.

Commissioner Jerry Willey explained that the county’s legal advisors advised against mentioning sanctuary laws to avoid further legal complications. “We were advised not to,” he said, emphasizing the potential impact on residents if federal funds were lost.

Community members urged the county to take stronger action against the federal government, pointing to Multnomah County’s recent decision to join two major lawsuits challenging Trump’s executive orders. These lawsuits argue that the administration’s conditions on federal grants are illegal and that defunding sanctuary jurisdictions violates the law. However, Washington County officials stated they lack the resources to participate in such legal battles.

Commissioner Pam Treece criticized the Trump administration’s actions but acknowledged the need for the county to adapt to continue providing essential services. “I agree that it is capricious and cruel,” she said. “We want to make sure we reduce our risk and can provide these dollars.”

As the county moves forward, the balance between compliance and resistance remains a complex challenge. The resolution reflects a cautious approach to navigating federal pressure while maintaining a commitment to fairness and accessibility for all residents.