INDIANAPOLIS Governor Mike Braun signed an executive order on Wednesday to remove DEI initiatives from the state government.

The executive order was one of more than a dozen signed by the new governor just days after his inauguration.

Braun’s administration stated it would replace diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) with merit, excellence and intelligence (MEI).

As part of the order, Braun has axed the Office of Chief Equity, Inclusion and Opportunity.

Braun’s order cites a 2023 Supreme Court ruling that states “eliminating racial discrimination means eliminating all of it.”

Braun’s order says all executive branch state agencies shall not utilize state funds, property or resources to “support diversity, equity, and inclusion positions, departments, activities, procedures or programs if they grant preferential treatment based upon one person’s particular race.”

It also eliminates any person receiving training endores “preferential treatment of one person’s particular race, color, ethnicity or national origin, over that of another person.”

The order also extends to preventing state agencies from mandating individuals disclose their pronoun preferences.

The Indiana Senate Democratic Caucus denounced the move, calling it a “regressive action” that “threatens to undermine Indiana’s progress toward building a state that works for all Hoosiers.”

“Our government should be a model of fairness and opportunity, not a barrier to it. This is not about politics; it’s about doing what’s right for every Hoosier,” said Sen. Rodney Pol Jr. (D-Chesterton).

“Inclusion isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a necessity for Indiana to thrive in the modern era,” said Sen. Andrea Hunley (D-Indianapolis).

“DEI doesn’t just improve lives; it transforms them, breaking down systemic barriers and ensuring that every Hoosier has the chance to succeed,” said Sen. Shelli Yoder (D-Bloomington).

The Indiana Democratic Party provided the following statement in response to Braun’s wave of executive orders, including the elimination of DEI initiatives.

“As a party, we stand ready to work with Governor Braun where we can find common ground, such as cannabis reform, and on the issues Hoosiers care about: lowering prices, healthcare reform, and protecting local schools from budget cuts. Braun’s orders today will only push talent from Indiana, and create more government oversight and costs, not less. Let’s get to work solving the kitchen table issues Hoosiers are dealing with.”

Sam Barloga, INDems spokesperson

Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita applauded Braun’s move and said the new governor is off “to a great start.”

“We need the best of the best to serve Indiana and put you first not some woke agenda,” Rokita said.

The entire order can be read below: