Meta and Amazon have recently announced significant reductions in their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, aligning with a broader trend among major U.S. corporations to reassess such programs. This shift comes amid changing political landscapes and increasing scrutiny of DEI efforts.

Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has decided to discontinue its DEI programs, citing the term's growing contentiousness. In an internal memo, Janelle Gale, Vice President of Human Resources, indicated that the company would cease DEI-related activities in hiring, training, and supplier selection. Instead, Meta plans to focus on sourcing diverse job candidates without employing the "Diverse Slate Approach." Additionally, Maxine Williams, the Chief Diversity Officer, will transition to work on accessibility and engagement.

Similarly, Amazon is phasing out certain DEI initiatives. Candi Castleberry, Vice President of Inclusive Experiences and Technology, mentioned in a memo that the company has been reevaluating its DEI programs and aims to complete this process by the end of 2024. The decision is part of Amazon’s effort to build more durable and inclusive programs integrated into existing processes.

These decisions are part of a broader movement among U.S. corporations to scale back DEI commitments. Companies such as Walmart, McDonald's, Ford, and others have recently reduced or eliminated their DEI programs, influenced by legal decisions and conservative pressure. Notably, a Supreme Court ruling against considering race in university admissions has prompted companies to reassess their diversity policies.

Critics argue that reducing DEI initiatives may undermine efforts to promote workplace equality and inclusivity. However, proponents of the rollback contend that such programs can lead to preferential treatment and may not effectively address underlying issues. The Human Rights Campaign has criticized these rollbacks, emphasizing that moving away from DEI efforts contradicts the core values of workplace equality and ultimately harms employees and consumers.

As the political and cultural environment continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact corporate diversity efforts and the broader discourse on equity and inclusion in the workplace.