Meta Platforms and Amazon are pulling back on their diversity efforts, joining a growing list of U.S. companies scaling back their focus on diversity and inclusion (DEI) as Donald Trump prepares for a potential return to the White House. Trump, a vocal critic of “woke” culture, has had a significant influence on corporate decisions in the lead-up to his second term.
Meta has decided to end its DEI programs entirely—this includes training, hiring, and supplier selection. According to an internal memo, the company cited a “changing” legal and policy landscape, referring to recent U.S. Supreme Court decisions that suggest a shift in how DEI initiatives will be handled in the future. Meta’s VP of Human Resources, Janelle Gale, mentioned that the term DEI has become controversial, with some seeing it as giving preferential treatment to certain groups over others.
This move is just the latest in a series of rightward shifts at Meta. Just days ago, the company announced it would stop fact-checking content on Facebook and Instagram, which have often been criticized by conservatives. Meta also added Trump ally Dana White, the UFC CEO, to its board, likely a bid to secure better relationships with the incoming administration.
Amazon is also reevaluating its diversity programs. In a December memo, the company said it would be winding down “outdated” DEI programs and focusing on efforts with proven results. The company also shifted away from sections of its website that spoke about “Equity for Black People” and LGBTQ+ rights, opting instead for a more generalized focus on inclusivity.
Both companies have been significant donors to Trump’s campaign, each contributing $1 million to his inaugural fund.
The move by Meta is especially noteworthy given its complex history with Trump. Facebook was a key platform for Trump’s 2016 campaign, but their relationship soured after the events of January 6, when Trump was banned from Facebook and Instagram for his role in the Capitol insurrection. However, by 2023, Facebook reinstated his accounts.
The shift away from DEI efforts isn’t unique to these tech giants. Other big names like McDonald’s, Walmart, John Deere, and Harley-Davidson have also scaled back their diversity programs, partly due to pressure from conservative groups and boycott threats.
