The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) has confirmed a round of layoffs as part of a strategic effort to realign its operations with its mission. In an email sent on Wednesday afternoon, the organization announced actions aimed at streamlining activities to enhance their ability to promote a multiracial, inclusive democracy, prioritizing the perspectives of communities most impacted by human rights violations.
“We announced internally the consolidation of certain programs and activities as well as the elimination of others, resulting in staff reductions,” the SPLC’s press team stated. They characterized the decision as challenging yet necessary to focus their work in line with programmatic priorities and goals, expressing gratitude for the contributions of all affected staff.
While the SPLC did not disclose specific numbers, they acknowledged inquiries about the union’s assertion that approximately 60 employees would be affected by the layoffs. The organization emphasized that these changes are intended to amplify their impact in states such as Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Georgia, and Florida, while continuing nationwide efforts.
Responding to the layoffs, the SPLC’s union expressed concern that these actions could undermine the organization’s mission in the Southern region, questioning their alignment with initiatives for racial justice, decarceration, democracy defense, and poverty eradication.
The story is developing, with updates expected as more information becomes available regarding the SPLC’s restructuring efforts.