Disney Removes DEI Initiatives Amidst Federal Dismantlement and Corporate Pushback
In response to the Trump administration's executive orders dismantling federal Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, Disney (DIS) has joined a growing number of companies removing or altering their DEI initiatives.
According to Disney's latest 10-K filing, the company has eliminated two DEI programs previously listed in its annual report:
* Reimagine Tomorrow: A digital platform amplifying underrepresented voices and showcasing Disney's DEI commitments.
* The Disney Look: Appearance guidelines that have been updated to "encourage and celebrate authentic expressions of belonging."
Amidst President Trump's efforts to eliminate DEI programs at the federal level, multiple high-profile companies have taken similar actions. These include Target (TGT), Meta (META), Walmart (WMT), McDonald's (MCD), and Ford (F).
However, some companies like Costco (COST) and Apple (AAPL) remain committed to DEI. Apple has encouraged investors to vote against a shareholder proposal that would eliminate its DEI programs.
For Disney, this move is particularly significant given its ongoing controversy over its special tax district, which was seized by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis following Disney's opposition to the state's "Don't Say Gay" law.
At Disney's annual shareholder meeting, CEO Bob Iger acknowledged the company's "woke" agenda perception and emphasized that its primary focus is entertainment, not political activism. He stated that the company should only take public positions when it directly impacts its business or employees.