Microsoft cancels its own DEI team, citing 'changing business needs'" title="Microsoft cancels its own DEI team, citing 'changing business needs'" />
Microsoft has announced a notable change within its corporate structure, dismantling its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) team. One team leader deemed the initiatives “no longer needed,” leading to layoffs within the group.
The company did not disclose the exact number of employees affected, or the identity of the team leader who sent the email.
🇺🇸MICROSOFT FIRE THE ENTIRE INCLUSION AND EQUALITY TEAM
The company says it's about “changing business needs,” but the impact is much deeper.
This action sends the corporate world into a tailspin, hinting at a possible backsliding of the push for inclusion.
The head of the… pic.twitter.com/TuZZnQgtS6
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) July 17, 2024
In an email obtained by Business Insider and sent to thousands of employees, it was revealed that the DEI team was being phased out due to “changing business needs” as of July 1.
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The email suggested that the importance of DEI programs has evolved since 2020.
Microsoft has fired its entire inclusion and equality team: similar departments at other corporations are under threat – Business Insider, IGN
The IT giant laid off the team due to “changing business needs”.
In response, the department head criticized Microsoft for being… pic.twitter.com/HkHw1lpaCm
— NEXTA (@nexta_tv) July 17, 2024
The email hinted at a purported broader Conservative policy plan, Project 2025, and called into question the long-term relevance of DEI commitments made by companies after 2020.
He also suggested that companies may be reconsidering their inclusion initiatives in light of potential risks related to US federal contracts.
BREAKING: Trump VIGOROUSLY DENIES claims he is part of PROJECT 2025.
“I don't agree with some of the things they say and some of the things they say are ABSOLUTELY RIDICULOUS and abysmal.”
“I have nothing to do with them.”
Trump is PROJECT 47.. pic.twitter.com/GRs2SuioDg
— Chuck Callesto (@ChuckCallesto) July 5, 2024
While the email commended Microsoft's DEI teams for their efforts, it also leveled allegations against executive leadership, accusing them of discrimination, harassment and toxicity within the company.
In response, Microsoft spokesman Jeff Jones said Business Wire that its D&I commitments remain unchanged, emphasizing the company's continued focus on diversity and inclusion.
Microsoft's approach to DEI had been shaped by the events following the death of George Floyd.
The company previously announced initiatives aimed at addressing racial injustice and promoting diversity within its workforce, including pledges to increase the number of black and African-American leaders by 2025 and an additional $150 million investment in diversity efforts.
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