Microsoft Laid Off A DEI Team, Saying It’s ‘No Longer Business Critical Or Smart’
SUMMARY
Microsoft recently made headlines by laying off its entire diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) team, effective July 1st, due to what it described as evolving business priorities. An internal email obtained by Business Insider revealed that the company no longer viewed DEI initiatives as essential, marking a stark departure from its 2020 commitment to invest $150 million in diversity efforts following the George Floyd protests. This decision aligns with a broader trend in the tech industry, where companies like Zoom, Google, and Meta (Facebook) have also reduced their DEI efforts despite previous pledges. Despite the layoffs, Microsoft maintains that its dedication to diversity and inclusion remains unwavering, emphasizing ongoing accountability and prioritization of these values within the company's culture.
