Philadelphia, PA – January 23, 2025 − Today, Senator Art Haywood hosted a press conference at the historic Mother Bethel AME Church to denounce the Trump Administration’s egregious rollbacks on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and Affirmative Action policies. Joined by prominent community leaders, faith leaders, and advocates, the event highlighted the devastating impact of these rollbacks on marginalized communities and emphasized the importance of protecting civil rights progress.
Speakers included Rev. Carolyn C. Cavaness, pastor of Mother Bethel AME Church; Rafael Alvarez-Febo of Esperanza; Rev. Gregory Holston, social and racial justice activist; and Bishop J. Louis Felton of Mt. Airy Church of God in Christ. Each speaker underscored the need to safeguard DEI policies as a means of advancing equity, justice, and the dignity of all individuals.
“Whether Black, Brown, or White, however you identify, we all have dignity. The just demand for racial justice cannot be erased by the criminal President,” said Senator Haywood. “I wear glasses. These glasses help me to see better; they show me the way forward. DEI are the glasses for America. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion is America’s way forward.”
The speakers urged Pennsylvanians to take action to protect and advance policies that promote equity and fairness, and to hold leaders accountable for decisions that undermine civil rights progress.
To follow up with questions or request a comment, please contact Wallace Weaver, Communications Director, at Wallace.Weaver@pasenate.org or 267-575-9792.