Microsoft has revealed a significant restructuring of its corporate organization by disbanding its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) team.
The leader of the team declared that the initiatives were deemed “obsolete,” resulting in layoffs within the team.
The company has not disclosed the specific number of employees impacted or the identity of the leader who communicated this decision via email.
🇺🇸MICROSOFT FIRES ENTIRE INCLUSION AND EQUALITY TEAM
The company says it’s all about “shifting business needs,” but the impact goes much deeper.
This action sends ripples through the corporate world, hinting at a potential rollback of the inclusivity momentum.
The head of the… pic.twitter.com/TuZZnQgtS6
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) July 17, 2024
Business Insider obtained an email sent to thousands of employees, revealing that the DEI team was disbanded as of July 1 due to “changing business needs.”
The email indicated that the importance of DEI programs has shifted 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 fired the team due to "shifting business needs."
In response, the head of the department criticized Microsoft for being… pic.twitter.com/HkHw1lpaCm
— NEXTA (@nexta_tv) July 17, 2024
The email alluded to a purported comprehensive conservative policy strategy, known as Project 2025, and raised doubts about the enduring significance of the diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) pledges made by corporations after 2020.
It also implied that companies might be reevaluating their efforts to promote diversity and inclusion due to potential concerns regarding U.S. federal contracts.
BREAKING REPORT: Trump VIGOROUSLY DENIES claims he is part of PROJECT 2025..
"I DISAGREE with some of the things they are saying and some of the things they're saying are ABSOLUTELY RIDCULOUS and abysmal."
"I have NOTHING to do with them."
Trump is PROJECT 47.. pic.twitter.com/GRs2SuioDg
— Chuck Callesto (@ChuckCallesto) July 5, 2024
The email praised the DEI teams at Microsoft for their dedication, while also making allegations against the executive leadership, accusing them of discrimination, harassment, and fostering a toxic environment within the company.
In response, Microsoft spokesperson Jeff Jones reportedly told Business Wire that the company remains committed to its D&I goals, emphasizing its ongoing focus on diversity and inclusion.
Microsoft’s approach to DEI had been influenced by the events following George Floyd’s death.
The company had previously announced initiatives aimed at addressing racial injustice and promoting diversity within its workforce.
This included commitments 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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