Diversity, equity and inclusion programs at some of the country’s biggest companies fell apart in 2024. Anti-DEI efforts will most likely only ramp up in 2025.

Summary

DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs faced significant backlash in 2024, with several corporations, including Walmart and Ford, scaling back initiatives under pressure from figures like Elon Musk and activists like Robby Starbuck.

States such as Utah and Iowa joined others in banning DEI offices at public universities, and Trump has pledged to eliminate federal DEI funding in 2025.

Despite this, proponents highlight DEI’s benefits for innovation, employee satisfaction, and profitability.

Some companies have rebranded DEI efforts, while advocates urge stronger public support to counter growing opposition.