Amazon has removed references to diversity and inclusion in its annual report for 2024 after scaling back several diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.

In the previous year’s report, Amazon highlighted “inclusion and diversity” under human capital, but the latest filing now focuses on “numerous and evolving initiatives” to be “Earth’s best employer.”

Public policies were also adjusted, condensing DEI mentions into a single section and removing terms like “transgender” from its webpage.

Candi Castleberry, Amazon’s vice president of inclusive experiences and technology, informed employees in December that some DEI programs deemed outdated would be discontinued.

This shift aligns with broader industry trends, as companies like Google and Meta have also cut back on DEI efforts, while others like Apple and Costco maintain their policies.

Amazon’s shift in direction coincides with a strong focus on AI, with plans to invest US$100 billion in AI development in 2025.

Recent Amazon developments