Meta has abandoned its long-standing diversity and inclusion efforts, including the elimination of fact-checking programs aimed at curbing misinformation. In a move seen as an about-face for the company, CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced that he is ending representation goals for women and ethnic minorities due to concerns they created the impression decisions were made based on race or gender.
The announcement comes amid Meta’s repositioning of the company, including hiring a Republican public affairs chief and appointing UFC CEO Dana White to its board. The move has sparked disappointment and anger among employees, who have expressed frustration with the reversal from prior principles.
Zuckerberg claimed that ending diversity programs was necessary due to concerns over “preferential treatment” and called it a matter of serving everyone. However, critics argue that this decision will only exacerbate existing biases and perpetuate misinformation on the platform.
The company’s shift in stance has raised questions about its commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion. In 2021, Meta pledged to spend $1 billion annually with diverse suppliers and set aside $100 million specifically for spending at Black-owned businesses. Now, these efforts have been scrapped.
This move is seen as a significant step back from the company’s previous stance on diversity and inclusion. It remains to be seen how this will impact the platform’s ability to effectively mitigate bias and promote fact-based content.
Source: https://sfstandard.com/2025/01/10/meta-zuckerberg-rogan-dei-censorship