Microsoft Ditches DEI Hires: ‘No Longer Business Critical’

Microsoft has disbanded its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) team, citing a shift in business needs as the reason for the change.

The decision to dismantle the DEI team was communicated to employees in an email, highlighting a reevaluation of the value of DEI initiatives in the current landscape.

While praising the DEI team’s past contributions, the email also raised concerns about discrimination and toxicity within the executive leadership.

BREAKING: Microsoft has reportedly laid off its internal DEI team.

— Leading Report (@LeadingReport) July 16, 2024

“True systems-change work associated with DEI programs everywhere are no longer business critical or smart as they were in 2020,” the company stated.

“Unofficially in my opinion, not specific to Microsoft alone, but [conservative policy plan] Project 2025 looms and true systems change work associated with DEI programs everywhere are no longer business critical or smart as they were in 2020. Hence the purposeful and strategic 3-5 year shelf life of many company’s inclusion commitments post the murder of George Floyd are being reevaluated,” the email added.

“And the way I see it, the timing was impeccable so businesses everywhere could reevaluate the path forward should their U.S. federal contracts be at risk if the work continues on its face.”

Despite these adjustments, Microsoft reaffirmed its commitment to diversity and inclusion initiatives.

“Our D&I commitments remain unchanged. Our focus on diversity and inclusion is unwavering and we are holding firm on our expectations, prioritizing accountability, and continuing to focus on this work,” spokesperson Jeff Jones said.

The company’s DEI efforts had been boosted following George Floyd’s death, with goals to increase diversity within its workforce and substantial financial commitments.

Recent job cuts within Microsoft have included layoffs in various divisions, but specific numbers have not been disclosed.