Many American companies have reduced their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts over the past year due to pressure from activists, concerns about legal risks, and backlash from customers and conservative groups. Large companies like Walmart, McDonald’s, Amazon, Ford, and Lowe’s have started rolling back their DEI initiatives in response to these challenges.
Former President Donald Trump promised during his campaign to reduce federal DEI programs. In his first week in office, he signed an executive order that ended DEI offices and initiatives across the federal government. Trump also criticized DEI programs at the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) after a tragic midair collision between an American Airlines plane and a U.S. Army helicopter, which killed 67 people. Although the investigation into the crash was still in its early stages and did not suggest that DEI programs were involved, Trump pushed for a memorandum to end DEI efforts in the aviation sector.
Despite this rollback and political pressure, some companies are standing firm and continuing their DEI policies. For example, Apple rejected a shareholder proposal to end its DEI programs, saying that the move would be unnecessary. Costco also resisted a proposal asking the company to report on the risks of continuing its DEI initiatives, with the board of directors and shareholders opposing the measure.
Goldman Sachs has similarly defended its DEI policies. A spokesperson for the bank said it believes that diverse perspectives benefit organizations and is committed to complying with the law in its programs. CEO David Solomon emphasized the importance of diversity when attracting talent from around the world. JPMorgan Chase’s CEO, Jamie Dimon, also defended the bank’s DEI programs, saying they would continue to focus on reaching out to various communities, including Black, Hispanic, LGBT, and veterans’ communities.
Microsoft also remains committed to its DEI efforts. The company’s Chief Diversity Officer, Lindsay-Rae McIntyre, stated that diversity and inclusion are essential for creating products, services, and a workforce that empowers the world. Microsoft believes that its DEI work is more important than ever.
In conclusion, while some companies are scaling back their DEI programs, others like Apple, Costco, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, and Microsoft are standing by their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
