Pushback against diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives has been simmering since 2023, culminating recently with the actions of the Trump administration in the US. We believe that DEI does not hurt institutions nor compromise merit. In fact, it makes them stronger and enhances long-term performance. While there are constructive ways to improve the implementation of such policies, denouncing them altogether ignores their many benefits.
DEI can provide a platform for businesses to better execute their strategic goals, against a backdrop of evolving customer and employee needs, as societies become increasingly global and under-represented groups enhance their spending power. It is no coincidence that, despite dramatic pushback and against growing dissenting voices, many of the largest and best performing companies in the US remain committed to their DEI commitments.
DEI backlash in the US
The Trump presidency has turbocharged the DEI backlash, adding fuel to the fire set by the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn race-based admission policies at US colleges in 2023. In January 2025, his first set of executive orders included identifying private sector companies with ‘egregious and discriminatory’ DEI programmes.
“It is no coincidence that many of the largest and best performing companies in the US remain committed to their DEI commitments.”
This has galvanized many in the US business community to remove or water down such programmes, as they increasingly threaten their relationship with the new administration, and potentially pose risks to their federal contracts. Some have held firm however, understanding the bigger picture – that DEI strengthens businesses and is vital to long-term corporate survival.
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