Which companies are rolling back DEI and which are standing firm

Numerous major US corporations have scaled back or eliminated their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This shift follows increased pressure from political and shareholder activists, particularly amplified by the Supreme Court's affirmative action ruling. Mentions of DEI in corporate earnings calls have significantly decreased. Companies are rebranding their efforts, emphasizing terms like "belonging" instead of "equity." Several companies, including Brown-Forman, Lowe's, Meta, and McDonald's, cite the evolving legal landscape as justification for these changes. Activist Robby Starbuck claims responsibility for influencing several corporate DEI reversals. Legal experts suggest the legal risk of maintaining DEI programs is low, but companies consider broader social and political pressures. Among the companies significantly altering or abandoning their DEI programs are Amazon, Boeing, Caterpillar, Ford, Harley-Davidson, John Deere, and many others. Conversely, some companies, like Apple, Costco, and Delta, publicly reaffirm their commitment to DEI. This evolving situation reflects a complex interplay of legal, political, and social factors impacting corporate DEI strategies.