Trump administration investigates diversity programs at law firms

The Trump administration is scrutinizing law firms' diversity efforts, focusing on a nonprofit known as Sponsors for Educational Opportunity (SEO). This organization has helped students gain jobs on Wall Street for many years. On Monday, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) sent letters to 20 major law firms requesting details about their diversity, equity, and inclusion (D.E.I.) initiatives. The letters specifically mentioned SEO, raising concerns about the organization's future amidst the administration's increasing criticism of D.E.I. programs. Porter Braswell, the founder of 2045 Studio, emphasized SEO's importance in providing entry-level talent, especially among racially diverse candidates. He pointed out that SEO plays a crucial role in helping students prepare for careers on Wall Street by securing internships at banks and law firms. Unlike newer recruiting organizations focused on meeting diversity quotas, SEO is recognized for its emphasis on opportunity rather than just numbers. This approach has helped it avoid extensive legal scrutiny in the past.