On March 19, 2025, it was reported that the administration has lifted a ban on segregated facilities for federal contractors, a move that some believe benefits businesses with racist practices. This decision marks a significant shift in policy under the current leadership of Donald Trump and Elon Musk, often accused of harboring white supremacist and neo-apartheid ideations.
The General Services Administration has modified the Federal Acquisition Regulation, removing explicit prohibitions against segregated restaurants, waiting rooms, and drinking fountains for companies with federal contracts. Although businesses are still technically required to adhere to civil rights laws, including the Civil Rights Act, concerns have been raised that the Trump administration will not enforce these anti-segregation laws. Reports suggest that the Department of Justice will refrain from pressing discrimination lawsuits against companies re-implementing segregation, allowing them to continue obtaining federal contracts despite potential Civil Rights Act violations.
Elon Musk stands to gain significantly from these changes, especially following the cessation of an investigation into alleged segregationist policies at Tesla, halted by Trump early in his term. With the investigation now closed, new legal challenges related to federal acquisition policies are less likely to arise, given the removal of specific anti-segregation clauses.
The timing of these changes, coming shortly after the end of the DOJ investigation, has raised questions about possible motives. Critics see the changes in policy as an embodiment of white supremacy, with the administration’s efforts viewed as attempts to enable discriminatory practices under the guise of business freedom.
The editorial note from The Nation underscores the importance of independent journalism in the face of these developments, emphasizing the role of media in holding those in power accountable and fighting against injustice. Elie Mystal, The Nation’s justice correspondent, continues to advocate for rigorous reporting and analysis to expose actions believed to undermine civil rights and equality.
