In a significant shift, Citigroup has decided to revise its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The financial giant announced these changes through an internal memo issued by CEO Jane Fraser on Thursday. This move aligns with a broader trend seen among major corporations facing increasing political pressure against such programs. The company will now focus on talent management and engagement, dropping specific diversity targets except where legally mandated. This decision reflects the changing corporate landscape and the challenges faced by organizations in maintaining diversity-focused policies.

The modifications at Citigroup come as part of a strategic realignment aimed at addressing current societal pressures. In her memo, Fraser highlighted that the bank's "diversity, equity, and inclusion and talent management" team would be renamed to "talent management and engagement." This change signifies a shift away from explicitly promoting diversity as a core objective. The bank will also discontinue aspirational representation goals unless required by local regulations. Furthermore, it will no longer mandate diverse candidate slates or interview panels, marking a departure from previous practices.

This transition at Citigroup mirrors actions taken by other leading companies like Amazon, Meta, Target, Walmart, and Goldman Sachs. These firms have similarly reevaluated their DEI strategies in response to mounting criticism and political opposition. The movement away from formalized diversity targets underscores a growing reluctance among businesses to prioritize these initiatives publicly. Instead, they are opting for more generalized approaches to workforce management and employee engagement.

Fraser’s announcement highlights the complex interplay between corporate policy and external pressures. As societal attitudes evolve, companies must navigate the delicate balance between maintaining inclusive practices and responding to shifting public sentiment. Citigroup’s decision to refocus its efforts on talent management signals a new phase in how large corporations approach workplace diversity. While the emphasis on explicit diversity goals may diminish, the underlying commitment to fostering an inclusive environment remains a critical consideration for modern businesses.