Goal, the technology company that controls Facebook, Instagram and WhatsAppannounced significant changes to its diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) policy. In an internal memo addressed to its employees, the firm justified these modifications by pointing to “legal and political changes” in the United States, in a context marked by the rise of the president-elect. Donald Trump.
The end of DEI programs and the reasons behind
Meta decided to eliminate its dedicated diversity team and modify several policies related to the hiring and representation of historically underrepresented groups. According to Janelle Gale, Meta’s chief people officer, these decisions respond to a political and legal landscape that calls into question the effectiveness and equity of DEI initiatives.
In the statement, Gale said the company “has always sought to serve everyone” and noted that representation targets for women and ethnic minorities had previously been removed to avoid the perception that hiring decisions were based on protected characteristics such as race. or gender.
A strategic approach to Trump
The decision comes in a context of growing alignment between Meta and the incoming Trump administration. Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of the company, recently donated a million dollars for the president’s inauguration ceremony, marking a change in strategy with respect to his critical stance towards the former president in the past.
Along these lines, Meta seeks to position itself in a political environment where the focus on diversity is viewed with skepticism by conservative sectors. This movement is not isolated; Other companies such as Walmart and Harley-Davidson have also dismantled similar programs amid boycotts and social pressure.
Impact and criticism
Meta’s decisions have generated mixed reactions. While some celebrate the focus on hiring based exclusively on individual merit, others criticize the dismantling of initiatives that sought to mitigate historical inequalities.
Eliminating diversity programs could reduce opportunities for underrepresented groups and limit the positive impact these policies have had on inclusion within the tech industry. At the same time, critics warn that these decisions reflect a prioritization of political and economic interests over ethical and social principles.
Future of Meta under this new policy
Meta ensures that, even if it discontinues its DEI programs, it will continue to focus on practices that promote equity and accessibility in its products. According to Gale, “diverse teams, in terms of knowledge and perspectives, are key to innovating and solving complex problems.”
The challenge now will be how this decision affects public perception of the company and its ability to attract diverse talent in a sector where competition for the best professionals is fierce.
Source: Ambito
I am Pierce Boyd, a driven and ambitious professional working in the news industry. I have been writing for 24 Hours Worlds for over five years, specializing in sports section coverage. During my tenure at the publication, I have built an impressive portfolio of articles that has earned me a reputation as an experienced journalist and content creator.
