Unmasking the DEI and Civil Rights Bounty Hunter: Christopher Rufo’s Coordinated Assault
In the labyrinthine battle for justice, equity, and inclusion, a shadowy figure has emerged as a relentless foe — Christopher Rufo, a self-proclaimed DEI and Civil Rights Bounty Hunter.
His mission? To dismantle every remnant of programs, initiatives, and leaders who dare to advance civil rights and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in America. To truly understand the motivations behind Rufo’s crusade, we must delve into the intricate web of power, privilege, and control.
Rufo’s Approach:
A Coordinated Attack on DEI and Civil Rights
Rufo’s approach to DEI-related issues involves amplification, misinformation, overexaggeration, and the use of questionable case studies. He has honed a playbook to systematically challenge DEI initiatives and civil rights, often targeting high-level progressive leaders, many of whom are people of color, in academia, private industry, and government.
Rufo’s actions are not driven by a sincere quest for truth or justice; instead, they are part of a coordinated effort to undermine democratic principles with radical policy changes. This strategy is financed and rewarded by wealthy philanthropists and power brokers who see an opportunity to allow far-right extremists to openly and unapologetically push their divisive agenda.
The Grand Strategy: A Coordinated Assault on Democracy
This grand strategy extends beyond Rufo’s individual actions. It’s a calculated effort financed and rewarded by wealthy philanthropists and power brokers who see an opportunity to allow far-right extremists to openly and unapologetically push their divisive agenda.
Rufo is merely one pawn in a larger chess game orchestrated at all levels of government, business, and society. This strategy aims to sow discord and dismantle the very foundations of a diverse, equitable, and inclusive society..
The aim is simple: create doubt about the inclusion of people from different identity-based backgrounds, be it race, gender, immigrant status, sexual orientation, and more.
The Targets of Rufo’s Attack:
Rufo’s campaign knows no bounds, targeting government agencies, progressive leaders, and public policies with a relentless determination. Here are the key elements of his assault:
1. Overhauling Civil Rights Laws:
Rufo argues for a complete overhaul of civil rights laws, asserting that they have perpetuated the notion that different outcomes between racial groups are de facto “racial discrimination.”
His agenda includes overturning key legal decisions, such as Griggs v. Duke Power Co. (1971), rescinding President Lyndon B. Johnson’s executive order on affirmative action, abolishing the disparate impact provision from the 1991 Civil Rights Act, and restructuring federal agencies to ban DEI-style discrimination.
2. Undermining Key Legal Precedents:
- Overturning Griggs v. Duke Power Co.: Rufo aims to dismantle the landmark Supreme Court decision that prohibited employment practices with a discriminatory impact on minority groups, even if such practices were not intentionally discriminatory. This decision was a cornerstone in promoting equal employment opportunities and combating systemic discrimination.
- Rescinding LBJ’s Executive Order on Affirmative Action: President Lyndon B. Johnson’s executive order on affirmative action aimed to promote equal opportunity and combat discrimination in federal contracting and employment practices. It was a crucial step in addressing historical patterns of discrimination.
- Abolishing the Disparate Impact Provision: Rufo seeks to eliminate the disparate impact provision from the 1991 Civil Rights Act, which addresses situations where employment practices may disproportionately harm certain protected groups, even without intent to discriminate.
3. Restructuring Federal Agencies:
To accomplish his mission, Rufo advocates for a comprehensive restructuring of federal agencies responsible for enforcing anti-discrimination laws, particularly those related to DEI.
These agencies include the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the Office for Civil Rights (OCR), the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP), the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), the Civil Rights Division within the DOJ, the U.S. Department of Education (HHS), the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Office of Special Counsel (OSC), the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), and the Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA).
4. Undermining Title VI and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964:
- Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: Title VI prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance, addressing racial discrimination in various spheres.
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: Title VII prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin by employers, including private employers, labor unions, and certain public employers, promoting equal employment opportunities for all individuals.
The Funders Behind the Curtains:
Rufo was a fellow at the Heritage Foundation. Heritage is the most influential right wing think tank in Washington. Sourcewatch notes “Its initial funding was provided by Joseph Coors, of the Coors beer empire, and Richard Mellon Scaife, heir of the Mellon industrial and banking fortune.” It has deep ties to the Koch network and right-wing umbrella group Council for National Policy (CNP). Funders include:
- Charles Koch Institute: Donated $66,720 (2014–2018) to the Manhattan Institute, an organization affiliated with Rufo’s efforts.
- Charles Koch Foundation: Contributed $788,093 (2013–2019) to the Manhattan Institute and $624,000 (2018–2020) to the Heritage Foundation, both of which have ties to Rufo.
- Bradley Foundation: Provided over $3,000,000 (2001–2010) to various conservative organizations, including those linked to Rufo’s agenda.
- Paul E Singer Foundation: Donated $3,500,000 (2013–2018) to support initiatives associated with Rufo’s mission.
- Thomas W. Smith Foundation: Granted $1.27 million in 2019 to further causes aligned with Rufo’s goals.
- Lynde and Harry Bradley Foundation: Offered $625,000 in 2019 to support organizations and individuals promoting Rufo’s agenda.
- Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation: Provided $599,631 in 2017, potentially indirectly supporting entities linked to Rufo’s efforts.
- Walton Family Foundation: Granted $600,000 in 2021–2022, with possible connections to initiatives related to Rufo’s mission.
- Donors Capital Fund: Acted as a conduit for Koch network dark money, contributing $1,210,001 (2007–2012) to various conservative organizations tied to Rufo.
- Claude R. Lambe Charitable Foundation: Donated $905,000 (1992–2012) to support causes aligned with Rufo’s objectives.
American Compass
A conservative nonprofit called American Compass, which is associated with a “White House-in-waiting” for a potential second Donald Trump presidency, inadvertently disclosed its top donors in its 2022 tax statement. Among these donors are two foundations known for supporting liberal causes — the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation and the Omidyar Network Foundation.
The Omidyar Network has contributed $400,000 (actually $500,000) to American Compass since 2020. The Hewlett Foundation, a supporter of NPR, has provided over $1.4 million in donations to American Compass during the same period, with an additional $475,000 in January.
American Compass is part of Project 2025, a right-wing think tank affiliated with the Heritage Foundation, known for its hard-right and authoritarian agenda, including controversial policies related to LGBTQ rights, citizenship on the census, and potential military intervention against civil demonstrations.
The Hewlett Foundation and the Omidyar Network are typically associated with liberal causes, with the Omidyar Network founded by former tech mogul Pierre Omidyar and the Hewlett Foundation focusing on women’s rights, environmental reform, and the arts. Despite these foundations’ philanthropic history, they have supported American Compass, a conservative organization.
American Compass, aligned with the “New Right” movement, seeks to reconcile populism and big-government principles with conservatism. While it criticizes some aspects of free-market capitalism, it remains conservative in its stance on various issues, including abortion restrictions and gun laws.
American Compass founder Oren Cass, a former Bain executive and Mitt Romney adviser, advocates for a more labor-friendly economic conservatism but still supports conservative positions on cultural and economic issues.
In contrast, Project 2025, closely linked with American Compass, has been criticized for its hard-right agenda and proposals for using the federal government to punish critics and opponents.
The disclosed donations from liberal foundations to American Compass raise questions about the alignment of these donors with a conservative organization and its affiliation with Project 2025, which has drawn attention for its controversial policy proposals.
The “Why” of Rufo’s Argument
Christopher Rufo’s commitment to challenging and seeking to repeal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts can be attributed to several factors and underlying theories. It’s important to note that Rufo’s perspective aligns with a particular ideological viewpoint, and not everyone shares these beliefs. Here are some key reasons for his commitment:
Opposition to Identity Politics:
Rufo is a critic of what he sees as identity politics, which he believes divides society into competing groups based on race, gender, or other identity markers. He argues that DEI initiatives exacerbate these divisions by emphasizing group identity over individual merit.
Supporters of DEI argue that acknowledging and valuing individual identities, such as race, gender, and ethnicity, doesn’t necessarily lead to division. Instead, it can foster understanding, empathy, and solidarity among different groups. DEI programs aim to promote inclusivity, not division.
Concerns about Discrimination:
Rufo contends that DEI programs can lead to reverse discrimination, where individuals from majority groups may face disadvantages in hiring or admissions due to their race or ethnicity. He argues that this is unfair and goes against the principles of equal opportunity.
DEI advocates emphasize that these programs are designed to address historical and systemic inequities. They do not seek to discriminate against any group but aim to level the playing field for historically marginalized communities.
Belief in Colorblindness:
Rufo advocates for a colorblind approach to government policies and institutions, arguing that they should not consider an individual’s race or ethnicity. He believes that policies should be neutral and treat everyone equally, regardless of their background.
DEI proponents argue that a colorblind approach oversimplifies the complexities of inequality. They emphasize the importance of recognizing the intersectionality of identities (e.g., race, gender, sexuality, disability) and how they can compound disadvantages for some individuals.
Ideological Opposition:
Rufo is aligned with conservative and libertarian ideologies that emphasize limited government intervention and individual liberty. He views DEI efforts as government overreach and an intrusion into the private sector’s decision-making processes.
DEI initiatives do not necessarily mean disadvantaging majority groups. Instead, they focus on creating equitable opportunities for everyone, regardless of their background. It’s about ensuring that all individuals have a fair chance to succeed.
Media and Advocacy:
Rufo is a prominent figure in conservative media and think tanks, and he has used his platform to draw attention to what he sees as excesses in DEI programs. He leverages media exposure to rally support against these initiatives.
DEI supporters can present evidence that demonstrates the positive impact of diversity and inclusion in various settings, including businesses and educational institutions. They can argue that DEI efforts lead to improved decision-making, innovation, and overall societal progress.
Political Influence:
Rufo’s efforts align with certain political agendas that oppose DEI initiatives at local, state, and federal levels. He has influenced policy discussions and even drafted model legislation aimed at curtailing DEI programs.
Advocates for DEI contend that it is the responsibility of both the government and society to address systemic disparities and promote inclusion. They argue that DEI initiatives are not government overreach but rather a means to rectify historical injustices.
Countering the Assault:
In the face of this multifaceted assault on civil rights and democratic principles, we must respond with unwavering determination. Here are some actions to counter this coordinated effort:
1. Defend and Advocate: Stand up for the principles of civil rights and DEI, advocating for their importance in building a fair and inclusive society.
2. Educate and Inform: Promote education and awareness about the value of DEI initiatives and the historical context of civil rights.
3. Engage in Dialogue: Foster constructive dialogue with those who have concerns about DEI efforts, encouraging open conversations for mutual understanding.
4. Amplify Success Stories: Highlight examples of organizations and communities that have thrived because of DEI initiatives.
5. Demand Transparency: Advocate for transparency in DEI programs and initiatives, dispelling misconceptions.
6. Vote and Participate: Engage in civic activities, including voting, to protect democratic principles and support leaders who champion civil rights and DEI.
7. Hold Funders Accountable: Expose the influence of wealthy funders behind the coordinated attack, demanding transparency and ethical behavior.
In conclusion, Christopher Rufo’s assault on civil rights and DEI efforts is a calculated and well-funded endeavor. We must recognize the threat it poses to democratic principles, inclusivity, and equity. By taking concerted action, we can counter this assault and ensure a future that upholds the values enshrined in the Constitution and promotes justice for all.
Effenus Henderson
References
Rufo Plans to Overturn Civil Rights Legislation: https://youtu.be/aMkG7wEvmrc?si=OC6Ue35A4usU0ZU1
How Claudine Gay Became a Conservative Target https://www.bostonglobe.com/2024/01/25/business/claudine-gay-harvard-conservative-target/
Democracy in Chains: The Deep History of the Radical Right’s Stealth Plan for America. https://youtu.be/B_CnzsSeJyU?si=003JoV2jScgVt580
Timothy Snyder: Tyranny: On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century https://youtu.be/rbn3nchNRMI?si=gUezsCJip1bbZPny
Christopher Rufo’s Troubling Path to Power: His incoherent attacks on critical race theory are only one part of a much larger plan for counterrevolution. Source: The New Republic.
American Compass: https://www.thedailybeast.com/conservative-group-accidentally-reveals-its-secret-donors-some-of-them-are-liberal-orgs
