Merck DEI Program Targeted by Edward Blum Group for EEOC Review

A Merck & Co. Inc. diverse leadership program unlawfully excludes White and Asian workers, according to an EEOC charge filed by a group tied to the conservative activist who successfully attacked affirmative action in higher education.

The charge filed Monday by Edward Blum’s American Alliance for Equal Rights urges the civil rights agency to investigate the pharmaceutical giant’s “Diverse Leader Acceleration Program” for Black, Hispanic, or Native American employees.

It’s the alliance’s latest volley against diversity, equity and inclusion programs, adding to broader anti-DEI efforts by groups such as Stephen Miller’s America First Legal. Law firms, nonprofits, and companies including ...