Amazon, the e-commerce giant, has removed references to "inclusion and diversity" from its latest 10-K report, sparking concerns about the company's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The move comes amidst growing scrutiny of DEI programs by conservative groups and the Trump administration.

A comparison of Amazon's 2023 and 2024 10-K forms reveals that the company has significantly reduced its language related to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. The 2023 form stated, "As we strive to be Earth's best employer, we focus on investment and innovation, inclusion and diversity, safety, and engagement to hire and develop the best talent." In contrast, the 2024 form simply reads, "We strive to be Earth's best employer." The only remaining references to "diversity" are related to product categories, while "inclusion" is only mentioned in the context of stock awards.

Amazon did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the changes to its 10-K report. However, the company recently announced plans to review and wind down some of its DEI programs, following similar moves by Meta and Google. TechCrunch reported that Google also removed mention of diversity in its latest 10-K filing, compared to its 2023 form.

The shift away from DEI language in corporate filings is likely a response to growing pressure from conservative groups, which have sought to sue companies with DEI programs. The Trump administration has also been critical of DEI initiatives, with U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi instructing the Department of Justice to "investigate, eliminate, and penalize illegal DEI" programs and activities in private sector companies that receive federal funds.

The removal of diversity and inclusion language from Amazon's 10-K report raises concerns about the company's commitment to creating a more inclusive workplace. DEI programs have been instrumental in promoting diversity, addressing bias, and fostering a culture of inclusion within organizations. By scaling back its DEI initiatives, Amazon may be sending a signal that it is no longer a priority for the company.

The implications of this trend extend beyond the tech industry, as it may have a ripple effect on corporate culture and diversity initiatives across various sectors. As companies face growing pressure to abandon DEI programs, it remains to be seen how this will impact the broader push for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace.

In conclusion, Amazon's removal of diversity and inclusion language from its 10-K report is a significant development in the ongoing debate around DEI programs. As the tech industry continues to grapple with the challenges of promoting diversity and inclusion, it is essential to monitor the impact of these changes on corporate culture and the broader social landscape.