In contrast to this movement, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott is advocating for a stronger commitment to these values. Last year, Scott faced racist backlash online following a tragic incident where a significant bridge collapsed near his city. The online discourse wrongfully linked Scott, who is Black, to the catastrophe, branding him as a “DEI mayor” and asserting that his race played a role in the fatal accident.
Scott perceives these attacks as part of a larger trend of hostility towards Black Americans and other historically marginalized communities in positions of power. When Trump recently suggested that DEI initiatives were responsible for a deadly crash at Reagan National Airport in Washington, D.C., Scott felt a familiar resonance with the online vitriol aimed at him. Even when pressed, Trump continued to endorse his claims, asserting his views were based on “common sense” despite the ongoing investigation.
A statement from White House spokesperson Harrison Fields criticized DEI policies, characterizing them as detrimental to decades of progress toward genuine equality. “The Trump administration rejects this backward thinking and will pursue an agenda that lifts everyone up with the chance to achieve the American Dream,” Fields declared.
In a recent interview, Scott emphasized the significance of Black History Month as a platform to advocate for DEI principles, which he regards as embodying true American values. Addressing the reasons behind Trump and other Republicans targeting DEI programs, he highlighted an instance from last year: “When a container ship struck a bridge here in Baltimore, which led to six fatalities, far-right racists quickly attributed the disaster to me, the ‘DEI mayor.’ This absurd logic overlooks that the bridge was constructed long before I was born.”
Scott elaborated on the implications of such rhetoric, stating, “What they infamously insinuate is that unless you fit the narrow mold of a straight white male from a privileged background, your contributions and viewpoints hold no merit. This mindset is profoundly tragic.”
Regarding Trump’s recent insinuations that DEI practices were to blame for a plane and helicopter accident, Scott noted, “In moments of such immense tragedy, true leaders should provide clarity rather than pander to certain narratives or agendas. It’s regrettable that discussions of DEI overshadow the real human loss involved.”
In response to the assaults on Black history, Scott underscored the importance of unwavering resistance, saying, “You must stand firm with every fiber of your being until your last breath.”
To amplify this message, Scott has initiated a campaign dubbed “Definitely Earned It” in honor of Black History Month. He expressed the necessity to be unapologetically visible and proud, countering the negativity directed at the celebration of Black history. “We need to project our presence radiantly because light will always overpower darkness. Don’t retreat or diminish; stand firm and assert your identity while pushing back against oppression.”
Scott articulated his vision for this campaign, indicating that it would extend beyond the typical presentations of the past. “This year, we will elevate our approach, beginning in Baltimore, to showcase the significant contributors to Black history. Those individuals have not only embodied DEI principles but have also earned their achievements through sheer determination,” he stated. “We want to illustrate how systemic barriers challenge us and demonstrate the perseverance required to not only break through but also pave the way for future generations.”
He concluded by affirming that the celebration of Black History Month will continue unabated, emphasizing, “Regardless of national sentiments, we are committed to celebrating and honoring our history with pride and apprehension.”
