Business Daily Is DEI really dead?
Mar 19, 2025
Major US corporations are reevaluating their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts amid shifting political landscapes. The podcast discusses the impact of recent federal directives on these initiatives, revealing a complex corporate response. Insights from a DEI consultant shed light on balancing diversity goals with meritocratic hiring practices. Examples from companies illustrate how effective DEI policies can drive innovation and growth, while the debate continues over their legality and effectiveness in a polarized environment.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Companies Shifting DEI Policies
- Several major companies like Walmart, Harley Davidson, Meta, Amazon, Google, and Target have been modifying their DEI policies.
- This shift follows criticism from conservative groups, indicating a potential trend in corporate America.
Origins of DEI Backlash
- The current backlash against DEI policies originated in 2020 during the Black Lives Matter movement.
- Some saw corporate DEI commitments as performative, while others felt they were excessive.
DEI Lawsuits
- Lawsuits against DEI programs allege discrimination against the white male majority.
- Examples include lawsuits against grant programs for Black women founders and PayPal's commitment to Black and Latino founders.