the staff of the Ridgewood blog
Ridgewood NJ, in one of his first acts upon returning to office, President Donald Trump signed a series of executive orders aimed squarely at dismantling diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs at both the federal and private sector levels.
On January 20, Trump rescinded Biden-era executive orders that institutionalized DEI practices across government agencies. In addition, he sent a clear message to corporate America: end illegal, race-based DEI hiring practices — or face the legal consequences, including potential civil rights investigations.
DEI and the Law: Why It Matters
While “DEI” may sound like a noble cause, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employment discrimination based on race, sex, or other protected characteristics. Despite this, many companies have embraced DEI policies that prioritize identity over merit, which legal experts argue may violate federal law.
The Trump administration’s executive actions seek to restore fairness and equal opportunity by ending preferential hiring based on race or gender — practices that many argue are divisive, discriminatory, and counterproductive.
Private Sector Reacts: Fear of Investigations and Lost Contracts
Following Trump’s announcement, several major corporations began quietly scaling back their DEI programs. Companies are now concerned that race-based hiring practices could put them at risk of losing federal contracts or facing lawsuits. However, not all companies are backing down — and some are doubling down on their commitment to DEI, despite the legal and reputational risks.
Major Corporations Still Committed to DEI Hiring Practices
Here’s a list of major companies that have chosen to continue race-based initiatives under the banner of DEI:
Apple
Despite shareholder pushback, Apple refused to eliminate its DEI program, calling it “integral” to its corporate identity. The company defended its policies despite concerns about legality and fairness.
Costco
In January, Costco shareholders overwhelmingly rejected a proposal to assess the risks of DEI initiatives. The company continues to embrace race-based hiring goals.
Cosmetic Companies: e.l.f., Ulta Beauty, Sephora, Sally Beauty
Companies in the beauty industry have gone all in on DEI. e.l.f. Cosmetics’ board is made up of over 78% women and 44% people of color, which raises questions about hiring practices focused on identity rather than qualifications.
Ulta CEO Kecia Steelman reaffirmed her company’s stance, stating that DEI is “essential to our business,” while Sally Beauty and Sephora echoed similar sentiments.
Delta Airlines
Delta’s leadership remains firm on DEI. Executive VP Peter Carter recently claimed that “DEI is about talent,” despite growing criticism that race-based hiring erodes trust in corporate leadership and undermines qualified individuals.
Old Navy
Old Navy continues promoting DEI through plans to double Black and Latinx representation at its U.S. headquarters — a goal that openly prioritizes race over merit. The company is also investing millions in DEI-focused nonprofits.
Verizon
Verizon states on its website that it’s “committed to fostering an inclusive environment” and actively promotes supplier diversity and DEI hiring policies — another red flag for those concerned about legal compliance and equal opportunity.
A Cultural Shift Away from DEI?
President Trump’s actions represent a decisive shift away from identity-based hiring practices, signaling a broader movement toward merit-based opportunities and colorblind hiring. As companies face increasing pressure from both sides — activists pushing DEI and voters demanding fairness — the future of race-based corporate programs hangs in the balance.
With federal scrutiny intensifying and public support for equality of opportunity over equity of outcome growing, the age of DEI may soon be on its way out.
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Why do those that comprise 12 percent of the population appear in 95% of tv commercials and ads?
I choose to purchase a product from a spokesman that looks like me, instead of pandering companies
What are you talking about?
Don’t you know that all families are multiracial couples with multiethnic children unrelated to the parents’ ethnicity?
Not in RIDGEWOOD.
We keep hiring DEI teachers to poison and indoctrinate our children.
We are OK with this because we are …
RICH and STUPID