In a significant shift, numerous major U.S. corporations have begun to eliminate references to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) from their annual reports, according to an NPR analysis of recent regulatory filings. This trend marks a departure from the previous year, when many of these companies actively promoted their commitment to DEI initiatives. The recent changes come amidst a politically charged environment, including pressures from conservative critics and new executive orders from President Trump targeting DEI programs in the federal sector.
Among the companies that have revised their stance on DEI are industry giants such as General Motors, Disney, Google, Pepsi, and Intel. In their latest annual reports, many of these firms have either significantly reduced or completely removed language related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. For example, General Motors, which previously highlighted its commitment to fostering a culture of diversity in its 2023 report, made no mention of diversity at all in its 2024 report, although it did reference its diverse electric vehicle lineup.
This trend is not isolated. An analysis reveals that at least a dozen large companies have either deleted or softened their DEI language in recent filings. This shift appears to be a response to a broader political climate that has increasingly scrutinized DEI initiatives. Critics argue that such programs can be discriminatory against non-minorities, leading companies to reevaluate their commitments in light of potential backlash.
The timing of these changes coincides with a wave of announcements from various corporations regarding the cessation or alteration of their DEI programs. Notably, corporations like Walmart, Target, and Amazon have also made headlines for scaling back their diversity initiatives. Experts suggest that companies are opting to make these changes quietly to avoid drawing attention to their decisions, which could provoke further criticism or backlash.
The recent actions come in the wake of Trump’s executive orders, which label DEI programs as "illegal" and threaten financial penalties for contractors maintaining such initiatives. This regulatory pressure has intensified scrutiny on companies that work with the federal government, compelling them to reassess their DEI commitments.
While some companies are retreating from their DEI pledges, others, like Costco, have maintained their commitment to diversity and inclusion, demonstrating a contrasting approach amidst the shifting corporate landscape. As businesses navigate these new challenges, the future of DEI initiatives in corporate America remains uncertain, with many firms weighing the potential risks and rewards of their diversity commitments against the backdrop of evolving political and social dynamics.