By Aria Brent
AFRO Staff Writer
abrent@afro.com
As the president resumes his position in office, many companies such as Wal-Mart, Meta and McDonald’s have begun the downsizing or dissolution of their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs. These companies announced their plans before President Trump officially took office on Jan. 20. However, on his first day he signed an executive order that ended all DEI initiatives within federal agencies while also implying threats of punishment to private entities, like public companies, non-profits and universities that use them.
Following this executive order, he also directed that all federal DEI hires be placed on paid leave and ultimately fired as these departments begin to become a thing of the past.
But as the president wages war on DEI, companies across multiple industries are doubling down on their commitments to the cause , despite a shifting social and economic landscape. Organizations such as Johnson and Johnson, JPMorgan Chase and Co., Goldman Sachs and Costco have been clear in their plans to continue their DEI initiatives.
(AP Photo/Richard Drew, File)
Goldman Sachs on its website discusses the value that DEI brings to their organization and why they continue to uphold the program and all it stands for.
“At the crux of our efforts is a focus on cultivating and sustaining a diverse work environment and workforce, which is critical to meeting the unique needs of our diverse client base and the communities in which we operate,” the statement read. “We are committed to making progress toward racial equity, advancing gender equality, and increasing representation at every level of our firm.”
As leadership continues to play a pivotal role in advancing DEI, CEOs and executives are increasingly being held accountable for their organizations’ inclusion goals. Some companies are well aware of the challenges that come with having DEI programs in today’s political climate, however, they consider the benefits to be greater than the risks.
“We are often asked in particular about ‘equity’ and what that word means. To us, it means equal treatment, equal opportunity and equal access … not equal outcomes. There is nothing wrong with acknowledging and trying to bridge social and economic gaps, whether they be around wealth or health,” said JPMorgan Chase and Co. CEO Jamie Dimon in an April 2024 shareholders letter. “We would like to provide a fair chance for everyone to succeed — regardless of their background. And we want to make sure everyone who works at our company feels welcome.”
Companies like Costco have also stood firmly in their decision to continue embracing DEI.
“Our efforts at diversity, equity and inclusion remind and reinforce with everyone at our Company the importance of creating opportunities for all. We believe that these efforts enhance our capacity to attract and retain employees who will help our business succeed,” said Costco in a letter to its shareholders. “We welcome members from all walks of life and backgrounds. As our membership diversifies, we believe that serving it with a diverse group of employees enhances satisfaction. Among other things, a diverse group of employees helps bring originality and creativity to our merchandise offerings, promoting the ‘treasure hunt’ that our customers value.”
Costco’s commitment to creating a work environment and having a staff that reflects their diverse customer base is an effort felt by members of the wholesale store. Several customers shared how much they appreciate the company’s intentionality when it came to participating in DEI initiatives.
“As a consumer, I deeply value Costco’s commitment to DEI. I feel safe and secure knowing that the organization prioritizes creating an environment that aligns with my values and caters to my needs,” said Cameron McQueen of Orlando, Fla. “Sharing the same principles with Costco assures me that I’m being heard and respected as a customer. The actions of the organization shows me that they prioritize not just what’s best for them, but what’s best for me and other consumers. This strengthens a relationship that feels more personal than transactional, which is why I will continue to support and return to Costco.”
Other Costco members shared similar sentiments, noting that the company’s decision to oppose the pressure of conservative organizations is beginning to make a name for them that has some customers rushing back to their stores.
“Costco has continued to put effort and support towards Black and Brown communities, as well as other groups that need a space to feel comfortable while they get their daily necessities. They have shown time and time again that they will stand against policies that are implemented by the government that wants to tear down said communities,” said Sydnee Smith of Columbus, Ohio. “They’ve demonstrated that they are for the people and that they will continue to be for the people despite the actions of this current presidential cabinet and for that reason alone I will remain a Costco member.”
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