Member Exchange MX2 2025

Title
DE&I and Corporate America

Moderator: Yuli Kim

Presenting Organisations / Panellists:

Abstract:

Major companies such as Citi, Meta, McDonald’s, and Goldman Sachs are reevaluating or scaling back their DEI commitments. This trend is influenced by political and judicial pressures, including a 2023 Supreme Court decision that has significant implications for human resources departments. CEOs are caught between potential legal challenges and the need to navigate a complex political landscape, leading to a cautious approach toward DEI policies.

In the next MEX, we will hear firsthand perspectives from Corporate America and those directly impacted by the recent shift – some may even call it a “rebranding” of DE&I. What changes are taking place in Corporate America? What are intersex, transgender, and non-binary individuals experiencing in the workplace?

 Where we want to land in this webinar.

DE&I is Being Reframed, Not Eliminated

• Some companies are shifting their language and positioning DE&I within broader business objectives (e.g., “inclusive leadership” or “belonging”) to maintain momentum while avoiding political backlash.

Business Case for DE&I Remains Strong

• Despite challenges, organizations recognize that diverse teams drive innovation, employee engagement, and business success. Many are embedding DE&I into their core strategy rather than treating it as a standalone initiative.

Leadership and Accountability Are Crucial

• Companies should focus on equipping leaders with inclusive leadership skills, ensuring they champion equity and foster psychological safety within teams.

Questions for panellists:

• What alternative terms or approaches are organizations using to keep DE&I efforts going?
  
• How can companies ensure DE&I remains a core business strategy or can they?
  
• How are companies adapting their DE&I programs in response to changes in affirmative action policies and state-level restrictions?
  
• How can organizations equip managers and executives with the skills to foster inclusive workplaces?
  
• How can employee resource groups (ERGs) continue to drive impact in today’s evolving corporate environment?

Hope to see you there,

Christine, Yuli, Omar, Robert and Brian
Relationship Managers