Microsoft has dissolved its internal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) team, marking what we hope is a significant change in how major corporations approach these initiatives.
This move is part of a broader trend across corporate America, as companies reassess their DEI programs and return to more traditional merit-based hiring practices.
Business Insider reports that a Microsoft team leader informed employees via email that DEI programs are “no longer business critical or smart as they were in 2020.”
The team was cut due to “changing business needs” as of July 1, though the exact number of affected employees wasn’t disclosed.
❌ Microsoft decides diversity ‘no longer business critical’ and sacks DEI teamhttps://t.co/8erp8aAEnD
— The Telegraph (@Telegraph) July 17, 2024
Microsoft isn’t alone in this shift.
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Other tech giants like Zoom, Google, and Meta have also scaled back their DEI efforts.
Data from AlphaSense shows that mentions of DEI in company communications have dropped sharply since peaking in 2021.
Subha Barry, former diversity head at Merrill Lynch, told Bloomberg in March, “We’re past the peak.” This statement captures the changing attitude towards DEI in the business world.
DEI programs gained traction after George Floyd’s death in 2020, with many companies feeling pressure to show their commitment to social justice.
However, businesses are now reevaluating these programs’ effectiveness and necessity.
Critics argue that DEI initiatives can sometimes prioritize demographics over individual merit.
Wall Street is on notice. Corporate America is afraid of YOU. I’m just your instrument. Every woke company is wondering if they’re next. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/wI5fFmvbP1
— Robby Starbuck (@robbystarbuck) July 17, 2024
They believe true equality comes from hiring the best candidates, regardless of background.
Despite this change, Microsoft claims its overall commitment to diversity remains strong.
Spokesperson Jeff Jones stated, “Our D&I commitments remain unchanged. Our focus on diversity and inclusion is unwavering.”
This shift has been welcomed by critics who’ve been critical of what they see as “wokeism” in business.
Conservative commentator Robby Starbuck, for instance, has successfully pushed companies like Tractor Supply and John Deere to reconsider their DEI initiatives.
Microsoft’s decision could serve as a model for other corporations looking to refocus on core business needs while serving their customers in the best way possible.
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This trend is likely to continue, especially if Trump wins in November.
