Microsoft DEI Lead Criticizes Layoffs

Microsoft DEI Lead Criticizes Layoffs

Microsoft is reportedly shutting down a major Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) team. An internal email from the former team lead accused company executives of "investigated and evidenced discrimination, harassment, and toxicity." This email, first reported by Business Insider and confirmed by IGN, was sent last week to a significant number of Microsoft staff.

The email stated that the DEI team was eliminated due to "changing business needs" as of July 1, 2024. IGN has reached out to Microsoft for comments on the layoffs but has not received a response.

The former DEI lead expressed concerns that DEI programs are at risk across many companies, not just Microsoft. They linked these risks to Project 2025, a conservative policy plan, suggesting that DEI initiatives are no longer seen as business-critical. The email highlighted that the timing of these cuts allows businesses to reconsider their commitments without risking federal contracts.

The email also praised the efforts of the DEI teams at Microsoft, noting the "impossible mountains were moved" and the "brilliant, ethical, and world-class strategists" who contributed to the company's success. Despite this, the former lead claimed to have experienced discrimination, harassment, and toxicity from executive leadership.

In a statement to Business Wire, Microsoft spokesperson Jeff Jones said, "Our D&I commitments remain unchanged. Our focus on diversity and inclusion is unwavering, and we are holding firm on our expectations, prioritizing accountability, and continuing to focus on this work."

Microsoft is one of many tech companies that made significant DEI commitments following the 2020 murder of George Floyd and the subsequent Black Lives Matter protests. The company pledged to increase representation, invest an additional $150 million in diversity and inclusion, and double the number of Black and African American leaders in its US divisions by 2025.

However, since then, several tech companies, including Google and Meta, have significantly cut their DEI programs. Earlier this year, Microsoft laid off 1,900 staff from its video game divisions and closed Tango Gameworks and Arkane Austin. Last year, the company laid off over 10,000 employees.

IGN has reached out to both the email sender and Microsoft for further comments but did not receive a response in time for publication.

This story was updated to include a statement provided to Business Insider.