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Disney Faces Internal Backlash Over DEI Rollbacks During Trump Administration

Employees express frustration as Disney scales back diversity initiatives and settles legal disputes in a politically charged environment.

Peter Pan, lobbycard, front to back: , Wendy, Michael, John, 1953. (Photo by LMPC via Getty Images)
Robert Iger, CEO of The Walt Disney Company, looks on during a press conference in which Disney announced its purchase of Fox Family Worldwide from News Corp. and Haim Saban, July 23, 2001 in Pasadena, California.
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Overview

  • Disney has reduced its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, aligning with broader corporate trends influenced by political and legal pressures under President Trump's administration.
  • Employees have criticized Disney for perceived concessions to conservative agendas, including the removal of a transgender storyline and changes to the Reimagining Tomorrow program.
  • The company recently settled a defamation lawsuit involving ABC and Trump’s foundation, paying over $15 million and issuing a public apology, which some staff viewed as a capitulation.
  • Other major corporations, including Pepsi and General Motors, have also quietly scaled back DEI policies, citing legal ambiguities and fear of conservative backlash.
  • Disney has faced challenges balancing progressive values with political and cultural pressures, raising concerns about its long-term commitment to diversity and inclusion.