The move is seen as a response to the changing political landscape of the United States after Donald Trump’s election. The Trump administration has issued an executive order aimed at “restoring biological truths to the federal government.” The order does not directly affect private companies, but it requires agencies to ensure that federal funds are not used to promote “gender ideology.”
Deloitte US is not the only company that updates its policy in light of these changes. Accenture recently discarded its global diversity goals and demographic career programs, citing a new US political landscape assessment. Deloitte US has announced that each Financial Times will “sunset” diversity goals, annual diversity, equity, inclusion reporting and DEI programming.
Deloitte US confirmed that email signature guidance was given to staff in government and public service practices, but declined to comment on the DEI goals.
The company emphasizes its commitment to diversity and inclusion, saying that “everyone is welcome at Deloitte.” However, changes to its policy have raised questions about its diversity and impact on inclusion initiatives. Deloitte US has set the DEI range aimed at meeting by 2025. This has spent $200 million on “black-driven businesses,” increasing the gender balance and ethnic diversity of US partners, principals and managing directors.
Deloitte US will continue to implement initiatives such as the Heritage Month event, internal ethnic networks and the “Inclusion Council,” but changes in its policy have sparked concerns about the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. The move also raises questions about the impact of government policies on private companies and its diversity and inclusion initiatives.
In a statement, Deloitte US stressed its commitment to complying with government regulations, saying it “as a US government contractor, we have a long-standing track record of compliance with new government requirements.”
