A list of companies that have pulled back on DEI, including Amazon, Google, Walmart, and Meta

Meta in January joined the growing list of companies back-tracking on its DEI efforts.

Meta

• Many companies have pulled back or ended DEI programs amid pressure from conservative activists and a new administration.
• Those that have withdrawn or toned... ## The Decline of DEI Programs in Corporate America The number of companies withdrawing or reducing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives is on the rise due to pressure from conservative activists and policy shifts. ### Factors Contributing to the Decline * Pressure from conservative activists and right-wing media campaigns * Executive orders and legal challenges that limit or discourage DEI programs * Shifting political and social landscapes that favor traditional values over progressive initiatives ### Companies Scaling Back DEI Efforts Prominent companies such as Google, Meta, Amazon, McDonald's, and Harley-Davidson have announced the rollback of DEI initiatives. Meta, for example, eliminated its dedicated DEI team, citing a challenging legal and policy landscape surrounding DEI efforts. Amazon has removed mentions of diversity and inclusion from its website and discontinued certain programs. Google, under pressure from conservative groups, is no longer pursuing representation-based hiring targets and is reevaluating its DEI programs. McDonald's has ended representation goals, external DEI surveys, and supplier diversity requirements. ### Conservative Backlash and Activist Campaigns Critics of DEI initiatives, such as conservative activist Robby Starbuck, argue that these programs conflict with the values of their largely conservative consumer base. Starbuck has used social media campaigns to pressure companies into changing or eliminating their DEI policies. ### Negative Impact on Employees and Customers Advocacy groups like the Human Rights Campaign condemn the retreat from DEI policies, arguing that it harms employees and customers. They believe that DEI initiatives foster a welcoming and inclusive work environment that benefits all stakeholders. ### Corporate Responses to Backlash Companies have responded to the backlash against DEI programs in various ways: * Some, like Costco and JPMorgan, have publicly defended their DEI initiatives. * Others, such as Harley-Davidson and Tractor Supply, have withdrawn completely from DEI efforts. * Many companies have scaled back their DEI programs while emphasizing their commitment to inclusion. ### The Future of DEI Initiatives The future of DEI programs remains uncertain. Some experts believe the trend of scaling back or eliminating DEI initiatives will continue as the political and social landscape continues to evolve. However, others argue that the demand for an inclusive and equitable workplace will persist, and that companies that prioritize DEI will gain a competitive advantage in attracting and retaining top talent.