Federal health workers are alarmed after a website called "DEI Watch List" published their names, photos, and personal information, labeling them as "targets." Most individuals listed are Black employees within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). Their so-called "offenses" include involvement in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, Democratic political donations, and using pronouns in bios.
The site circulated in private group chats among federal health workers and reached Dr. Georges Benjamin, executive director of the American Public Health Association. "This is a scare tactic to try to intimidate people who are trying to do their work and do it admirably," he said. "It's clear racism."
One government worker discovered their name on the list when a former colleague sent them a link. "It's unnerving," they said, choosing anonymity for safety concerns. "My name and my picture is there, and in 2025, it's very simple to Google and look up someone's home address and all kinds of things that potentially put me at risk." They added, "I don't know what the intention of the list is for… It's just kind of a scary place to be."
Initially, the site labeled the individuals as "Targets," but later changed the term to "Dossiers." It includes workers' salaries and highlights supposed "DEI offenses," such as political donations, social media activity, and participation in federal DEI initiatives that have since been removed. Benjamin called the website an act of harassment, suggesting that authorities should investigate.
An employee from a federal health agency, though not listed, described the website as "psychological warfare." They noted widespread panic among colleagues. "People are just paranoid right now."
The site is linked to the American Accountability Foundation, a conservative watchdog group previously known for targeting military personnel over DEI initiatives.
The controversy follows a difficult period for public health workers. Employees at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have received "threatening" memos from HHS instructing them to end DEI-related work and report noncompliant colleagues. "The tone is aggressive. It's threatening consequences if we are not obedient," said a CDC physician.
The crackdown has created an atmosphere of fear. "I know of people who have been put on administrative leave for perceived infractions," said another CDC physician. In one instance, a potluck luncheon was canceled over concerns it might be seen as a cultural diversity event.
Despite the tension, public health workers remain committed to their mission. "If I leave, who's going to replace me?" a CDC physician asked. "If enough of us leave, then who's going to be doing the public health work?"
Link: NBCNews
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