AT&T Ends Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives
In a surprising move, one of the largest wireless carriers, AT&T, announced on Monday that it will be discontinuing its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.
David McAtee II, AT&T’s Executive Vice President, communicated this decision in a letter to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Kerr. In it, he stated that after evaluating the company’s policies and external relationships, he had found that “the legal landscape governing our diversity, equity, and inclusion policies and programs has changed.”
McAtee noted, “We believe in championing and involving many suppliers in all aspects of AT&T’s ecosystem.”
With a workforce exceeding 110,000 in the United States, AT&T cited several recent developments, including executive orders from the Trump administration and Supreme Court rulings, which prompted changes in their employment practices to comply with relevant laws.
The company claimed a long-standing commitment to “performance-based” employment, affirming that, “AT&T does not and will not have a role focused on DEI. We do not and will not hire based on race, gender, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.” The letter further stated that any training or references to DEI would be stripped from internal and external communications to align with U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission guidelines.
Interestingly, a report from City Journal revealed that AT&T had previously offered training for employees that included controversial statements about race, labeling racism as a “white trait.” The company described this training as voluntary, aimed at fostering a more understanding workplace.
Despite AT&T’s claims of halting DEI initiatives, their website still features a page focusing on “inclusivity” with quotes from Michelle Jordan, the vice president of culture and inclusion. Jordan, who previously held the title of chief diversity officer, stepped down in early 2025 after President Trump announced an executive order to eliminate DEI programs.
Her current role involves promoting an inclusive culture within the organization. According to her LinkedIn profile, she aims to create an environment where diverse perspectives drive engagement and growth.
In a related note, Verizon recently announced it would also suspend its DEI policy for its 105,000 employees.
While AT&T insists on its commitment to inclusivity, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact its corporate culture and workforce dynamics.
