Meta Platforms and Amazon have decided to scale back their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs ahead of the upcoming U.S. presidential inauguration, with the return of Donald Trump to office intensifying conservative opposition to such initiatives.
Both companies, which had previously ramped up their diversity efforts in response to protests following the police killings of George Floyd and other Black Americans in 2020, are now adjusting their policies in light of a changing legal and political landscape. Meta is halting its DEI programs, which included initiatives focused on hiring, training, and selecting suppliers. The decision was shared with employees in an internal memo on Friday and follows a series of actions that have attracted support from conservative circles. In the past two weeks, Meta has dismantled its U.S. fact-checking program, appointed Republican Joel Kaplan as its Chief Global Affairs Officer, and added UFC CEO Dana White—a close associate of Trump—to its board. The company also made headlines by contributing $1 million to Trump’s inaugural fund in December, signaling a shift in its political positioning.
Similarly, Amazon has begun winding down its diversity-related programs and materials, with plans to complete this process by the end of 2024. The decision was outlined in a memo seen by Reuters, which highlighted the company’s intention to phase out what it considered “outdated” programs on representation and inclusion.
The conservative backlash against DEI programs has been emboldened by legal developments, including a 2023 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that struck down affirmative action in university admissions. Critics, including figures like Elon Musk, have targeted DEI initiatives, accusing them of hindering business responses to crises, such as the wildfires in Los Angeles, despite lacking evidence to support these claims.
Janelle Gale, Meta’s Vice President of Human Resources, acknowledged in the memo that the legal and policy environment surrounding DEI efforts is evolving. She pointed to recent rulings, including a decision by a U.S. appeals court in December that blocked Nasdaq from enforcing diversity requirements for corporate boards. Gale also noted that the term “DEI” has become contentious, with some viewing it as promoting preferential treatment for certain groups.
As part of its restructuring, Meta will no longer have a dedicated team for DEI efforts. Chief Diversity Officer Maxine Williams will transition to a new role focused on accessibility and engagement, marking a significant shift in the company’s approach to diversity initiatives.
