Disney has pulled two of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.
The company removed its “Reimagine Tomorrow” program, according to its 2024 10-K Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) report, as reported by Fox Business. In the company’s 2023 10-K report, the program was described as Disney’s “digital destination for amplifying underrepresented voices and features some of Disney’s DE&I commitments and actions.”
Disney also removed its “The Disney Look” appearance guidelines from the DEI portion of the SEC filing. Under the 2023 filing, appearance guidelines were seen as a means of cultivating a “more inclusive environment that encourages and celebrates authentic expressions of belonging among employees.”
The DEI portion of the 2024 report lists initiatives such as an “executive incubator program and creative talent development program designed to engage the next generation of creative executives from underrepresented backgrounds.” Another program, called “Heroes Work Here,” is described as an effort to “hire, train and support U.S. military veterans.” Disney also has more than 100 employee-led groups to “represent and support the diverse communities” that make up its workforce, according to the SEC filing.
Stefan Padfield, Director of the Free Enterprise Project for the National Center for Public Policy Research, told the outlet that Disney dropping the two DEI programs “could mean they’re walking back their DEI investments, or it could signal they’re hiding them.”
“Either they recognize that more litigation is coming, or it could be part of a vibe shift,” Padfield said.
Last year, Disney sought to hire a DEI director, a position earning a minimum salary of $197,700 and a maximum salary of $241,500.
“Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are critical enablers of this effort,” the job said at the time. “To stay relevant in the market place, we strive to have the people and culture that enable us to surprise and delight our guests and audiences today and in the future.”
