Meta, the parent company of Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp, has abruptly terminated its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts, effective immediately, according to a report by Axios. The move marks a significant shift in the company's approach to promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce and supply chain.

The decision, announced in a leaked memo, cites the "changing legal and policy landscape surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in the United States" as the primary reason for the rollback. This change in stance comes amid lawsuits targeting programs specifically designed for Black and Latino communities, which have put pressure on companies to reassess their DEI initiatives.

Meta is not the only tech giant to scale back its DEI efforts. Microsoft and Zoom have also rolled back their diversity initiatives, indicating a broader trend in the industry. The shift raises concerns about the impact on diversity and inclusion in the tech sector, which has historically struggled with representation and equality.

The elimination of Meta's DEI department will likely have far-reaching consequences, including the discontinuation of programs focused on hiring a diverse workforce, training, and sourcing supplies from diverse-owned companies. This move may undermine the company's previous commitments to promoting diversity and inclusion, potentially damaging its reputation and relationships with stakeholders.

In a separate but related development, Meta announced that it would curb its fact-checking efforts on Facebook, Instagram, and Threads, sparking widespread user discontent. Searches on Google related to deleting Meta accounts have surged since Mark Zuckerberg's announcement, indicating a growing backlash against the company's decisions.

The dual announcements have sparked concerns about Meta's commitment to social responsibility and its willingness to prioritize profits over people. As the tech industry continues to grapple with issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion, Meta's decisions are likely to have significant implications for the sector as a whole.

Industry experts and observers will be closely watching Meta's next moves, as the company navigates this new landscape and faces mounting pressure to address the concerns of its users and stakeholders. As the tech industry continues to evolve, one thing is clear: the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion cannot be overstated, and companies must prioritize these values to build a more just and equitable future.