More Corporations Have Slashed DEI Initiatives

We previously published a list of the major corporations that have rolled back their commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Unfortunately, that list continues growing. Companies that once publicly pledged to support marginalized communities are now quietly scaling back or completely eliminating these initiatives. Whether it's due to political pressure, financial concerns, or shifting corporate priorities, the result is the same: fewer opportunities and resources for Black professionals and businesses, as well as other minority and underrepresented groups including veterans and the disabled.

Below is part 2 of the list of companies that have pulled back from their DEI commitments. Read part one here.

1. Amazon

Amazon has removed references to DEI from its corporate reports, disbanded several internal diversity teams, and reduced its focus on hiring diverse talent. The company has also cut funding for employee resource groups and diversity-focused recruitment programs. Many employees worry that without dedicated DEI initiatives, Amazon will struggle to maintain an inclusive workplace.

2. Shopify

Shopify, a major e-commerce platform, has disbanded several DEI programs, including its "Build Black" and "Build Native" initiatives, which were designed to support Black and Indigenous entrepreneurs. The abrupt cancellation left many Black business owners feeling abandoned, as these programs provided crucial funding and networking opportunities.

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3. Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo has ended its diverse hiring policy for senior-level positions, a move that follows legal scrutiny over its previous commitment to hiring diverse candidates. The bank had once pledged to interview a diverse slate of candidates for top roles, but now, it has removed those policies entirely. This decision aligns with broader corporate concerns over affirmative action rulings and legal challenges, but given Wells Fargo’s history well-documented history of racial discrimination, this is right on brand for them.

4. Victoria’s Secret

Victoria’s Secret has shifted its focus away from explicit DEI goals and instead is prioritizing “belonging.” The company recently dissolved its DEI-specific leadership roles and removed prior commitments to diversifying its executive team. This move follows the brand’s broader rebranding efforts, which included phasing out the Victoria’s Secret Angels in favor of more inclusive marketing. Now, however, the company appears to be walking back its diversity efforts, sparking backlash from those who saw those initial changes as a step in the right direction.

5. Zoom

Zoom, the video conferencing giant, made headlines after laying off a significant portion of its DEI team as part of broader company cutbacks. While many tech companies have scaled back hiring and expenses, the decision to disproportionately reduce its DEI division raises concerns about how seriously Zoom remains committed to fostering diversity in its workforce. Employees worry that without dedicated DEI leadership, inclusion efforts will fall by the wayside.

6. Google

Google has scaled back DEI initiatives, dissolved its DEI-focused leadership positions, and cut funding for diversity programs. The company has also reduced its support for external DEI partnerships and community programs. Employees fear this signals a departure from Google’s long-standing commitment to workplace inclusion.

7. Pepsi

Pepsi has decreased funding for DEI initiatives, reduced diversity leadership positions, and scaled back supplier diversity programs. The company has also removed diversity metrics from executive performance evaluations. These decisions have led to concerns about Pepsi’s long-term commitment to workplace equity.

8. Bank of America

Bank of America has removed DEI references from corporate reports, dissolved internal diversity initiatives, and faced criticism for reducing diversity-focused leadership roles. The company has also cut funding for scholarships and mentorship programs aimed at supporting underrepresented communities.

9. Amtrak

Amtrak recently announced plans to end its diversity programs, including initiatives focused on increasing representation among employees and leadership. The railway corporation cited financial constraints and a shift toward broader hiring strategies as reasons for the change. However, critics argue that the rollback will disproportionately affect minority employees who benefited from mentorship and advancement programs.

10. BJ’s Wholesale

BJ’s Wholesale has reduced its DEI commitments, removing diversity-focused policies and cutting back on diversity hiring initiatives. The company has also decreased its support for supplier diversity programs that once prioritized Black-owned businesses. Employees have voiced concerns that these changes will lead to a less inclusive workplace.

11. Uber

Uber has quietly removed diversity language from its latest annual report, signaling a reduced emphasis on DEI initiatives. The ride-sharing giant has also cut funding for employee resource groups and eliminated key DEI roles within the company. These changes have raised concerns among employees and advocacy groups about Uber’s long-term commitment to fostering an equitable workplace.

When corporations deprioritize diversity, it is up to us to continue supporting Black-owned businesses, advocating for inclusive policies, and holding these companies accountable.

While many of these businesses may still offer products and services that appeal to Black consumers, their actions—or inactions—should not go unnoticed.

One thing remains true: it’s always a good time to Buy Black. Head to OBWS.com, where you can discover thousands of Black-owned products and services you can shop today.

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