Business

Meta Discontinues DEI Initiatives Amid Shifting Legal and Policy Landscapes

Meta Ends Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Programs

In a significant move, Meta Platforms Inc. announced the cessation of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. This decision comes in response to the evolving legal and policy environment in the United States, as highlighted in an internal memo shared with employees and subsequently reported by various US media outlets.

Supreme Court Decisions Influence Meta's Strategy

Janelle Gale, Meta's vice president of people, pointed out that recent Supreme Court rulings have indicated a shift in the judicial approach towards DEI initiatives. These decisions underscore the principle that discrimination based on inherent characteristics should not be tolerated or encouraged. The term 'DEI' has become controversial, with some interpreting it as favoring certain groups over others.

Impact on Meta's Diversity Efforts

As part of these changes, Meta will eliminate its "Diverse Slate Approach," along with diversity supplier programs and equity and inclusion training programs. This announcement follows Meta's recent decision to discontinue its fact-checking program, signaling a broader reevaluation of its policies and practices.