Washington, D.C. — On Friday evening, the Task Force for Democracy filed Freedom of Information Act requests with the Office of Management & Budget and National Archives following the Trump Administration’s temporary shutdown of government websites. According to reports, this abrupt decision went into effect at 5 PM ET, and was aimed at removing language related to climate change, the LGBTQ+ community, and diversity, equity, & inclusion. The Congressional Research Service website was among those currently suspended by the shutdown, barring civilians from accessing information on previous records and upcoming legislation. It appears some websites are currently operational, but their future remains uncertain.
Just as important as availability of information is its accessibility. This move by the Trump administration violates both principles and is an abuse of power aimed at erasing crucial information that goes against the narrative their corporate backers are pushing.
“We’re submitting this FOIA request in order to gain access to the inner workings of the Trump administration’s decision to remove diversity, equity, and inclusion information from most federal government websites” said Asher Heisten, Task Force Vice-President and Project FOIA lead. “All Americans have the right to access information. We cannot let these instances of erasure stand…”
Despite the Administration claiming the memorandum (regarding the shutdown of websites that did not comply with their orders) was “misinterpreted,” websites to several major agencies remain down. As of the time of this release, this includes the websites for the Federal Communications Commission, Federal Aviation Agency, and National Park Service.
Our organization was founded to uphold transparency and accountability in government. Uncertain times like these strengthen our commitment to this mission.
As part of the Task Force’s Project FOIA, we will continue planning trainings for youth organizers & student activists to learn how we hold our government accountable through the Freedom of Information Act. In the coming weeks, training sign-ups and resources will be made available on our website.
Continue learning, reading, and resisting—especially when those in power try to erase our progress.
