Presidential Appointments Should Reflect Our Nation
President-elect Donald Trump has said he wants to unify our nation and be the president for all Americans. We at AAUW applaud the sentiment. Yet it can’t be overstated that actions speak louder than words. As President-elect Trump assembles his cabinet and White House team, he must keep in mind that personnel decisions are policy decisions. AAUW and its members and supporters are watching these nominations and appointments with keen interest. At this time, the list of recent and rumored appointees reported by the media and transition team show a vast majority of pale and male advisers. We at AAUW are not encouraged by the lack of diversity in the emerging Trump White House.
Bias and discrimination of any kind are not acceptable — not in our national dialogue or in a government that truly represents all of us. To make a sincere appeal for unification, we encourage the incoming administration to make appointments that reflect the makeup of our nation. These appointments should reflect the variety of experiences and backgrounds that make the United States the envy of the world. It also, by the way, makes for better policy that addresses the problems facing our country.
AAUW believes in speaking truth to power, and we will be a valued ally or fierce critic as the situation warrants. We can only hope that President-elect Trump stays true to his stated desire for unity and appoints advisers who aim to work for all Americans, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Throughout our more than 135-year history, AAUW has always stood for solutions that work for all women and families. We also stand united against bigotry and bias whenever and wherever they appear. Americans are watching, and our expectations are high.
Related
Analyzing the 2016 Election
It’s been a historic election cycle, but the real work comes after Election Day.
AAUW Reacts to Election Day Results
As President-elect Trump assembles his cabinet and White House team, he must keep in mind that personnel decisions are policy decisions.
How to Speak Up against Everyday Bias
Ever wondered how to respond to the sexism you see in your daily life, in person and online? Here’s how to take a stand.
By:
Lisa Maatz | Issue: Advocacy | Tags: News, Public Policy, Voting and Elections | November 16, 2016
