Calls for Resignation of Youngkin's Diversity Chief Over Controversial Remarks on DEI

Black lawmakers in Virginia and the state's NAACP are calling for the resignation of Martin D. Brown, the state's chief diversity officer, after he criticized diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in a speech at Virginia Military Institute. Brown, a Black Republican appointed by Gov. Glenn Youngkin, argued that the pursuit of equity means "you're not pursuing merit or excellence or achievement." Black lawmakers and the NAACP called Brown's remarks "appalling" and "troubling," especially given VMI's efforts to be more welcoming to minorities and women. Brown oversees the state's office of diversity, opportunity, and inclusion and makes $160,000 a year.