Are Companies Backing Away From DEI? What It Means for HBCU Students and Alumni

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives are an integral part of many corporate spaces—but things are changing. Over the past few years, DEI has been embraced by companies looking to create a workforce that reflects the communities they serve. Now, though, some businesses are scaling back, leaving many of us in HBCU communities wondering what this means for our opportunities and progress.

Let’s break it down:

Why the Retreat on DEI?

A mix of political pressures, legal challenges, and shareholder concerns have driven some of the biggest names in corporate America to rethink their DEI commitments. Companies that once stood boldly behind inclusive hiring, employee resource groups (ERGs), and supplier diversity initiatives are now scaling back—or rebranding those efforts.

For instance:

• Terms like “equity” are being swapped for “belonging” or “diversity of thought.”
• High-profile organizations like Amazon and Boeing have cut back or outright dismantled their DEI teams.

For HBCU students and alumni, who are often a focus of these programs, this shift raises questions about representation and access to opportunity in industries that have traditionally been less inclusive.

Companies Scaling Back

Here’s a quick look at some major companies making significant changes:

• Amazon: Ended certain DEI programs, calling them outdated.
• Boeing: Closed its global DEI department entirely in 2023.
• Meta: Cut DEI hiring programs and scaled back supplier diversity.
• Target: Completed its three-year DEI goals but pulled back on external diversity surveys.

These shifts don’t just impact employees already working in these companies—they can also make internships, partnerships, and recruitment opportunities harder to come by for HBCU students.

Who’s Still Standing Firm?

Not every company is stepping away from DEI. In fact, some are doubling down, emphasizing how diversity is not only right but also a smart business move.

• Apple: Encouraged shareholders to reject anti-DEI proposals and reaffirmed its commitment to creating a diverse workforce.
• Delta Air Lines: Called DEI a critical part of its business success during a recent earnings call.
• Salesforce: CEO Marc Benioff stood firm, stating that diverse perspectives drive better business outcomes.
• Cisco: CEO Chuck Robbins said that a diverse team delivers measurable success.

These companies are leading by example, showing how DEI creates spaces where everyone can thrive—including HBCU alumni and students.

What’s the Impact on HBCUs?

For HBCUs, corporate DEI programs have long been an important bridge, connecting students to internships, scholarships, and post-grad careers. As these programs diminish, HBCU graduates could face additional challenges breaking into certain industries or ascending the corporate ladder.

But there’s good news: the value of an HBCU education doesn’t hinge on corporate trends. As students and alumni, we carry the legacy of resilience, excellence, and community that no DEI initiative can erase.

How Can You Stay Ready?

Even as DEI landscapes shift, here are ways you can stay ahead:

• Build Your Network: Leverage HBCU alumni associations, LinkedIn groups, and other professional networks to create connections in your field.
• Be Informed: Keep up with companies actively recruiting HBCU students or maintaining DEI efforts.
• Own Your Value: Highlight the unique skills and perspectives you bring to the table as an HBCU graduate.

Final Thoughts

Change can be unsettling, but it’s important to remember: while companies may scale back DEI, they can’t take away the impact HBCU students and alumni have made—and will continue to make. Whether it’s in boardrooms, classrooms, or on Capitol Hill, the legacy of HBCUs is unstoppable.

Keep pushing. Keep networking. Keep building. Because no matter how corporate trends shift, our community remains strong and thriving.

What’s your take on these changes? Let’s talk in the comments!