Why Disney is Changing its Approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (Note This title appears at the top of the blog post as a headline.)

Why Disney is Changing its Approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The Walt Disney Company is shifting its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs to focus more on business outcomes, according to an internal memo. This move follows several major US businesses in responding to the Trump administration's efforts to dismantle DEI initiatives.

A Shift in Focus

Disney's 2024 annual report, published in September, removed references to its Reimagine Tomorrow program, a digital platform that promoted diversity, equity, and inclusion commitments and actions. The memo from Disney's Chief Human Resources Officer, Sonia Coleman, notes that the platform will be rebranded as MyDisneyToday, focusing on attracting top talent, fostering a culture of belonging, and supporting underserved communities.

A Business-Centric Approach

According to Coleman, We create entertainment that appeals to a global audience. Having a workforce that reflects our consumers helps drive our business. The company will also evaluate executive compensation based on a new factor called talent strategy, which assesses how well leaders advance Disney's values. This change replaces the goal of increasing diversity and inclusion among executives and managers to reflect the company's target audiences.

Industry-Wide Trend

Disney is not alone in adopting a business-centric approach to DEI initiatives. Amazon.com removed references to its inclusion and diversity programs from its annual report, following a December memo that signaled the winding down of these programs as part of a broader corporate retreat from such policies.

A Response to Criticism

Disney has faced criticism from some who object to the company's efforts to promote diversity and inclusion in its movies. America First Legal, founded by Stephen Miller, deputy chief of staff for policy under President Donald Trump, sent Disney's board of directors a letter arguing that the company's DEI initiatives had harmed its stock. The company also became embroiled in a controversy over Florida's Don't Say Gay law, which restricts classroom discussion of sexuality and gender.

Conclusion

As fantasy writers, it is essential to stay informed about industry trends and developments that can impact our work. Disney's shift towards a business-centric approach to DEI initiatives is just one example of how companies are adapting to changing market conditions and shifting public attitudes. By staying up-to-date and adapting to these changes, we can ensure the success of our fantasy writing endeavors in 2025 and beyond.

Keywords diversity, equity, inclusion, Disney, DEI programs, business outcomes, talent strategy, executive compensation, Amazon.com, America First Legal, Don't Say Gay law.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

Enjoy the little things in life. For one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things. Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up.