PBS shuts down diversity office after executive order
- PBS has closed its DEI office in response to Trump's executive order targeting such programs.
- The decision resulted in the departure of key diversity officers from the organization.
- While PBS retracts its DEI initiatives, Deloitte UK remains committed to its diversity goals amidst contrasting approaches.
In the United States, PBS has officially shuttered its office dedicated to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). This decision comes in direct response to an executive order signed by former President Donald Trump, which targeted what he deemed wasteful DEI programs across various sectors of government and corporate America. The closure announcement was confirmed on a Monday and marks a significant shift in PBS's internal structure, as the network has eliminated the roles of diversity officers Cecilia Loving and Gina Leow, who were appointed just a few years earlier in 2021 to promote DEI within the organization. PBS President and CEO Paula Kerger communicated the news to staff, ensuring that the network would continue to fulfill its mission of serving diverse American communities despite this operational change. She emphasized that PBS remains committed to being a welcoming place for all, underscoring the company's intention to adhere to its core values in the wake of new regulatory pressures. The executive order from Trump encourages corporations to reevaluate their DEI commitments, a trend that is increasingly seen across the corporate landscape as many organizations reassess their diversity initiatives. Meanwhile, the situation contrasts sharply with developments at Deloitte UK, where the CEO has reaffirmed the firm’s commitment to diversity. The head of Deloitte UK, Richard Houston, reiterated that the UK arm would continue to meet its DEI goals despite the decisions taken by its US counterpart, which plans to step back from its diversity objectives entirely. This differing approach highlights a significant divide between corporate diversity strategies in the US and the UK. The broader context indicates a cultural shift in corporate America, where many companies, including major organizations like Meta, Google, and Accenture, have begun to retract their emphasis on DEI initiatives. This trend follows the political changes post-Trump's election, where there has been a noticeable swing towards conservative policies that favor a more traditional corporate approach, reducing the focus on diversity as a core corporate value. As businesses reassess compliance with changing socio-political landscapes, questions remain about the future of inclusive practices and their implications for workplace culture both in the US and abroad.