The EEOC reported that Chair Andrea Lucas sent a letter to Fortune 500 CEOs, GCs, and board chairs reminding them that workplace programs labeled as “DEI” (or similar programs, policies, and practices) must comply with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The letter stresses that employment decisions—including hiring, promotion, training, and access to opportunities—may not be based on race, sex, or other protected characteristics, regardless of the initiative’s stated purpose. Lucas also noted that the EEOC (which the letter specifically notes does not stand for the Equitable Employment Outcomes Commission) will use its full enforcement authorities, including investigations and litigation, to address practices it considers discriminatory.