DEI Trainer Files Complaint, Forestry Official Suspended Over Merit-Based Hiring

Oregon’s forestry department has placed Deputy Head Mike Shaw on administrative leave after a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) trainer accused him of hiring based on merit rather than diversity criteria. Megan Donecker, the former head of the department’s DEI program, filed the complaint after Shaw reportedly stated that he aimed to hire “the most qualified candidates” for positions, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation.

The complaint, which has kept Shaw on administrative leave since August 6, raised concerns about the department’s work culture. Donecker, who identifies as an advocate for marginalized groups, claimed that LGBTQ+ employees did not “feel safe or comfortable” at work due to the lack of emphasis on pronouns and DEI initiatives. She pointed to an “old boys club” atmosphere, which she said permeated the forestry department.

Gov. Tina Kotek (D-OR) has weighed in on the matter, reaffirming her commitment to DEI programs within Oregon’s state agencies. Kotek stressed that advancing DEI is crucial and that complaints about discrimination must be taken seriously.

Donecker, who left her job at the department in March due to stress related to her complaint, said the environment was particularly challenging for women and LGBTQ+ individuals. She now works as a DEI consultant and lives with her wife and their adopted child.

Shaw, who earns $192,000 annually, remains on leave and the department has yet to release the full details of why he is not currently working. Donecker’s complaint indicated that her efforts to promote DEI were not taken seriously and that she was excluded from leadership meetings.