Companies That Have Stripped Back Their DEI Efforts [Video]

Several major U.S. companies are buckling under pressure from conservative groups to scale back or eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. This shift follows the U.S. Supreme Court’s June 2023 ruling that ended affirmative action in college admissions. Spurred by this decision, conservative organizations have filed lawsuits targeting DEI initiatives in corporate America, challenging workplace practices that aim to support marginalized groups.

McDonald’s is the latest company to dial back its DEI efforts. In a statement posted on the fast-food chain’s website on Jan. 6, the company announced it would reviseits DEI protocols. Although McDonald’s will continue to review diversity goals through its Purpose & Impact Report, which covers the board, employees, and suppliers, the company is introducing the “Golden Rule”—treating everyone with dignity, fairness, and respect—as a core principle of its inclusion strategy. McDonald’s has also outlined four key guiding principles: promoting community reflection, leveraging inclusion for competitive advantage, fostering a sense of belonging, and …