Amazon, led by Jeff Bezos, has announced it is scaling back its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, joining other major corporations in revising or ending such programs following criticism for being “ineffective” and “woke.”
In a December memo obtained by Bloomberg, Amazon’s senior human resources executive Candi Castleberry revealed that the company was “winding down outdated programs and materials” and consolidating others under broader, results-driven strategies. These changes were set to be completed by the end of the month.
Castleberry’s role, once titled Vice President of Global DEI, was renamed in 2023 to Vice President of Inclusive Experiences and Technology. She emphasized that Amazon’s focus moving forward would be on programs with “proven outcomes” to build a truly inclusive workplace culture.
Specific programs affected were not disclosed, but Bloomberg reported the changes included DEI-related initiatives. Additionally, Amazon reportedly removed content from its website on “Equity for Black people” and “LGBTQ+ rights.”
This shift comes amid broader corporate reconsideration of DEI strategies. Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta recently terminated all DEI programs, citing the Supreme Court’s recent rulings signaling a shift in how courts may interpret such initiatives. Janelle Gale, Meta’s vice president of human resources, noted that DEI has become a “charged” term, perceived by some as promoting preferential treatment for certain groups.
Other companies, including Walmart, Ford, John Deere, and Toyota, have also scaled back DEI programs in response to conservative criticism. Filmmaker and activist Robby Starbuck has been vocal in opposing such initiatives, claiming they foster division and inequality.
In a post on X, Starbuck announced his intention to expose “woke companies,” stating, “BIG News: On Dec. 4th I notified Amazon that they’d be an upcoming focus for us in 2025… Today they’re announcing a halt to some DEI policies.”
While Amazon has made significant changes, details about which programs were eliminated remain unclear. The company has pledged to continue prioritizing inclusivity through unified, effective initiatives rather than fragmented efforts.
