Diversity Commitment: The Brand Values
Context
Political pressure is mounting against your company's public Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) statement. Removing it would minimize political risk, but could alienate employees and customers who value your commitment to diversity.
Dilemma
Do you:
A) Retain the DEI statement, risking political tension, or
B) Remove it, minimizing risk to your brand?
Summary
Amazon removed a reference to workforce diversity from its annual 10-K report, aligning with broader corporate pullbacks on DEI amid political pressure. The change follows Trump’s executive order targeting DEI programs. While Amazon maintains a commitment to inclusion on its policy page, it has been quietly winding down certain diversity initiatives. CEO Andy Jassy publicly supported the Black Employee Network, signaling a diplomatic approach. Other major corporations, including Boeing and Walmart, have also scaled back diversity programs. Amazon’s evolving stance reflects a cautious balance between public support for inclusion and political and economic pressures.
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| Last modified: | 10 April 2025 4.09 p.m. |