The removal of the clause has been met with criticism from many, including constitutional law professor Melissa Murray, who says it is "symbolic, but it's incredibly meaningful in its symbolism.
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" Murray notes that the provision was part of the federal government's efforts to facilitate integration in the 1950s and 1960s, and its removal sends a message that segregation is no longer explicitly prohibited.
The change has also been met with concern from federal workers who oversee contracts, with one worker saying that the process used to institute the changes was "essentially subverting democracy.
" The worker noted that the usual public notice and comment period was not followed, and that the changes were made without allowing agencies to comment on the implications.
The General Services Administration did not respond to NPR's questions about why the agency did not follow the usual public notice and comment procedure, or why the "segregated facilities" clause was removed.
However, the agency did issue a statement saying that it is committed to implementing all current executive orders and taking action to implement any new executive orders.
The removal of the clause has significant implications for federal contractors and the federal government's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. It also highlights the ongoing struggle for racial equality and justice in the United States.
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