Jan 11, (V7N) - Recently, Meta Platforms and Amazon have announced significant reductions in their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. This shift appears to be influenced by the political landscape, particularly in anticipation of Donald Trump's potential return to the presidency.

Meta has decided to terminate its DEI programs, which encompass various initiatives such as hiring practices, training, and supplier selection. This decision was communicated through an internal memo, which cited a "transforming legal and policy environment" as a key reason for the changes.

Additionally, Meta has dissolved its U.S. fact-checking initiative and appointed several prominent Republicans to significant positions within the company, including Joel Kaplan as chief global affairs officer. The memo from Meta indicated that the term "DEI" has become contentious, suggesting that it may imply preferential treatment for certain groups over others. As part of its new strategy, Meta plans to eliminate its dedicated DEI team and discontinue its "Diverse Slate Approach" to hiring.

Similarly, Amazon is winding down its outdated DEI programs, with plans to complete this process by the end of 2024. In a memo to employees, Amazon stated that it would focus on programs with proven outcomes rather than those developed by individual groups.

The backlash against DEI initiatives has been fueled by conservative groups threatening legal action against companies that maintain such programs, especially following a 2023 Supreme Court ruling that invalidated affirmative action in university admissions. This legal shift has emboldened opponents of DEI efforts, who argue that these initiatives promote discrimination against certain groups. This cultural shift at Meta and Amazon marks a significant departure from the heightened focus on diversity initiatives that emerged after the protests following George Floyd's death in 2020. Other companies, including Walmart and McDonald's, are also reevaluating their diversity strategies in light of increasing conservative criticism.

The reductions in DEI programs at Meta and Amazon reflect a broader trend among major U.S. corporations responding to changing political dynamics and public sentiment regarding diversity initiatives.

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