Meta cancels DEI program, aligning with changing political landscape

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Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, has made a dramatic shift in its corporate policies, announcing the cancellation of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. The move is part of a broader set of changes implemented by Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg, sparking widespread debate about the company's direction. In a memo obtained by Axios, Meta vice president of human resources Janelle Gale cited recent Supreme Court rulings and changing legal standards as reasons for the change. “The term 'DEI' has also come under fire,” Gayle wrote, noting that some believe the practice promotes preferential treatment of certain groups. As part of the overhaul: Meta will no longer set representation goals based on race or gender. There is no longer a need to include diverse candidates in the hiring process. Supplier diversity programs focused on attracting underrepresented suppliers will also be discontinued. The decision comes after Zuckerberg announced he would shift content moderation responsibilities to users and loosen restrictions on hate speech on the Meta platform. The move was seen as an attempt to appeal to growing anti-“woke” sentiment among some political groups, particularly the MAGA movement and Trump-era policies. Zuckerberg's decision to loosen restrictions on hate speech also drew sharp criticism from advocates. Groups warn this could lead to an increase in harassment and disinformation on Facebook and Instagram. Meta has not commented publicly on whether it plans to replace DEI initiatives with alternative programs or strategies to promote workplace equity. Like this: Like Loading… Discover more with Baller AlertSubscribe and get the latest posts delivered to your email.

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