Meta is discontinuing its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, the company announced on Friday. This decision follows a trend among companies responding to pressure from conservative critics and customers. According to a memo obtained by CNN, Meta will dissolve its DEI team, cease equity and inclusion initiatives, and revise hiring and supplier diversity practices.
The company’s vice president of human resources, Janelle Gale, sent the memo to all global employees, acknowledging the changing legal and policy landscape surrounding DEI efforts in the United States. Gale highlighted recent Supreme Court decisions and the perception that the term “DEI” may imply preferential treatment. As a result, Meta plans to shift focus towards implementing fair and unbiased practices for all individuals, regardless of background.
Chief diversity officer Maxine Williams will transition to a new role centered on accessibility and engagement. Meta will no longer mandate managers to recruit from underrepresented groups or prioritize minority-owned vendors. Gale emphasized the importance of assembling talented teams through diverse candidate pools without considering protected characteristics such as race or gender.
In alignment with other recent adjustments at Meta, including modifications to fact-checking and content policies, CEO Mark Zuckerberg shared his rationale for these changes on the Joe Rogan podcast. Zuckerberg cited a shift in perspective influenced by the 2016 election and subsequent pressure to combat misinformation, leading to a reevaluation of the company’s approach to free expression and content moderation.
Moving forward, Meta aims to create programs that promote fair and consistent practices while addressing bias for all individuals. This strategic realignment signifies Meta’s evolving stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts amid broader shifts in societal and political contexts.
All of these individuals from the Biden administration would reach out to our team, expressing their dissatisfaction and using strong language,” Zuckerberg disclosed. He noted that such interactions have been well-documented and widely known. The administration had reportedly attempted to persuade Meta to remove a meme insinuating that individuals who receive the Covid-19 vaccine could become involved in class action lawsuits.
“We have faced significant pressure over the past 8 to 10 years from various large organizations, but I believe we are on the right path moving forward,” Zuckerberg remarked.
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