In a surprise turn, Microsoft recently revealed plans to disband its team dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), despite previous commitments made post-George Floyd protests in 2020. Employees expressed concerns over this decision which the tech giant attributed to “shifting business necessities”.
Pushback from the employees advocated for the importance of the DEI team. However, Microsoft reassured that their commitment to a diverse and inclusive culture remains firm. As a part of their future DEI strategy, the company intends to weave these initiatives into various departments providing a more holistic approach.
Nevertheless, critics fear this restructuring might silence independent feedback loop, signalling Microsoft’s DEI commitments as mere corporate rhetoric. With these concerns hanging in the air, Microsoft’s proceeding steps will remain under close observation.
Microsoft maintains that their dedication to socio-cultural diversity, equal opportunity, and inclusivity remain steadfast. They addressed the apprehensions sparked by the decision and reaffirmed their resolve to maintain an inclusive environment that thrives on diversity.
New concerns were voiced by former team leaders suggesting Microsoft’s commitment to DEI initiatives seems to be cooling off.
Microsoft dissolves diversity team: reactions and implications
The exact number of employees affected by the decision remains unknown.
Following the tragic death of George Floyd in 2020, Microsoft among other companies pledged to better their internal diversity, particularly increasing the number of Black leaders by 2025. However, the current fulfillment status of these pledges remains uncertain.
Reports suggest this retreat from focusing on diversity isn’t exclusive to Microsoft. Other tech giants like Google and Meta appear to be trimming down their diversity-focused teams too, sparking critical discussions on corporate responsibility towards fostering diversity and inclusivity.
In more news from Microsoft, job cuts are anticipated, with around 10,000 employees set to be laid off in early 2023. Particularly affecting hardware, software, sales and marketing teams, the move seeks to streamline operations and increase efficiency. But it has also heightened job security apprehensions among employees.
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