How Companies are Handling DEI Policies Amidst Controversy

As companies have been working towards upholding DEI policies, there has been some controversy surrounding it through recent criticism and faced calls to dismantle it. There have been a variety of major firms that have begun to edit their DEI standards to avoid backlash.

Changes Within DEI

Conservative Activism

Many conservative activists claim that DEI is just a racist and illegal movement, generally discriminating against white and male workers. While supporters of DEI argue that it focuses on ensuring that the workforce and corporate environments are safer and more inclusive, the opposition regards it as racist and even illegal.

Legal Issues

Some companies pushing DEI policies are facing legal actions and lawsuits. American First Legal, a conservative public interest organization, has filed bias litigation and even requested inquiry into various organizations, such as Macy’s. Additionally, pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer have faced lawsuits and changed DEI language in response.

DEI Rebranding in Companies

In July, the Society for Human Resource Management removed the “E” for equity from their “IE&D” standards to address the backlash DEI has been facing.
For Molson Coors, the CEO made a statement regarding the backlash, stating that the company would be heading away from DEI policies and into a “broader view.”
Many companies have changed the language they use to describe their DEI policies, taking a softer approach in promoting their business as all-inclusive. Since 2023, the amount of emphasis placed on DEI has decreased by 22%. There has been an increase in using words such as “diversity” and “inclusion” rather than the phrase DEI itself.
The latest company to step away from their DEI policies is Ford Motor. Amidst the backlash, Ford Motor has informed employees that they will no longer take part in an annual survey from an LGBTQ advocacy group or use quotas for minority dealerships and suppliers.

While there has been some rollback or complete reversal on DEI standards from major companies, there is still a strong movement of diversity within the corporate landscape. Almost 83% of companies haven’t changed their core values in reinforcing an inclusive environment. Regardless of the controversy surrounding DEI policies and enforcement, organizations are still focused on developing a business that places importance on growing a well-rounded and diverse community.