Diversity At Risk; Several Companies Have Quietly Began Laying Off Their DEI Departments

As more states adopt anti-diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) measures, companies are quietly eliminating these essential departments.

Earlier this year, Texas enacted a law restricting colleges from establishing or maintaining DEI departments. The absence of DEI offices in higher education could drastically limit multiculturalism on campuses, leading to the layoffs of many employees who worked in these offices. Alabama soon followed suit, dismantling DEI units in the state’s public educational institutions. These rulings were motivated by the 2023 Supreme Court decision to strike down affirmative action in higher education. Although the ruling did not directly address DEI initiatives, especially in the workplace, it has fueled increased anti-DEI sentiments, prompting multiple companies to dismantle such departments that ensure fair hiring and treatment of all individuals.

This could mean minorities and members of the LGBTQIA+ community are at risk of not getting equal opportunities. Without these protections in companies, strategies to attract and recruit a diverse pool of candidates, including underrepresented groups, are removed. Let’s take a look at some of the biggest companies that have begun scaling back their diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.

Zoom

The tech company laid off about 150 employees in February 2024, dismantling its entire DEI team in the process.

Meta

In early 2023, Meta slashed over 10,000 jobs, many of which were DEI-related.

Microsoft

In early July 2024, Microsoft moved to eliminate its “woke” DEI team and policies. It is unknown how many employees were laid off.

DoorDash

DoorDash cut its DEI department in 2023, though it is unknown how many employees were impacted.

CNN

CNN dismantled its Race and Equality team in July 2024, laying off 100 staffers within the department.