Mark Zuckerberg's company Meta is canceling its diversity programs, joining companies across corporate America that are backing away from initiatives criticized by conservatives, citing legal and political risks.
The move comes just days after the tech giant, which owns Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, announced it was ending a fact-checking program that was criticized by President-elect Donald Trump and Republicans and elevated conservatives to key leadership positions.
In a memo to employees about the decision, which affects hiring, supplier and training efforts, the company cited the “changing legal and political landscape.”
Walmart and McDonald's are among other companies that have made similar decisions regarding diversity efforts since Donald Trump won re-election.
In her memo to staff, which was First reported by Axios Meta was confirmed by the BBC, citing the Supreme Court ruling, while also noting that the term “DEI” had become “fraught.”
She said she will continue to look for diverse employees, but will end her current approach, which looks to choose from a pool of diverse candidates.
Major banks and investment groups, including Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase and BlackRock, have also withdrawn from groups focusing on risks from climate change.
These moves have accelerated a decline that began two years ago Republicans have intensified their attacks on companies such as BlackRock and DisneyShe accused them of “woke” progressive activism and threatened political sanctions.
Big brands like Bud Light and Target have also faced backlash and boycotts related to their efforts to attract LGBTQ customers.
Many diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, known as DEI, were put in place following the Black Lives Matter protests that erupted in 2020 following the police killing of George Floyd.
Recent court decisions have strengthened critics of the programs, who say they are discriminatory.
Supreme Court in 2023 It revoked the right of private universities to consider the issue of race In admission decisions
Another appeals court ruling invalidated a Nasdaq policy that would have required companies listed on that exchange to have at least one woman, racial minority or LGBT person on their board or explain why not.
It said it would also end its efforts to work with “diversified” suppliers but would instead focus on small and medium-sized businesses.
It also plans to stop offering “equity and inclusion” training and instead offer programs that “reduce bias for everyone, no matter your background.”
Meta declined to comment on the memo, news of which was immediately met with criticism and celebration.
“I'm sitting back and enjoying every second of this,” said conservative activist Robbie Starbuck, who is best known for his successful campaign against policies at companies such as Ford, John Deere and Harley-Davidson.
