Holds firm on LGBTQ+ rights amid rising political pushback
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Mar 30
- 10 min read
Updated: The Walt Disney Company has long been committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), particularly championing LGBTQ+ rights.
This commitment was recently reaffirmed when Disney’s shareholders overwhelmingly rejected a proposal to withdraw from the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index.
This dedication was recently reaffirmed during the company's annual shareholders meeting, where a proposal to withdraw from the Human Rights Campaign’s (HRC) Corporate Equality Index was overwhelmingly rejected, with only 1% of shareholders supporting the measure. This is according to Business Insider.
Before the shareholder vote, Disney began cutting back DEI programs, sparking internal backlash. Employees felt the company was «pandering to MAGA» amid political pressure. At the time, Bob Iger was overseeing these changes, aiming to shift focus toward broader business goals while facing criticism for backing away from long-held inclusion efforts.
Voting against the proposal
The proposal, submitted by the National Center for Public Policy Research, a conservative think tank, argued that Disney's association with the HRC could alienate certain customers and investors. However, Disney's board recommended voting against the proposal, emphasizing the company's longstanding commitment to workplace equality and inclusivity. Disney has consistently achieved a perfect score on the HRC's Corporate Equality Index since 2007, reflecting its efforts to protect against workplace discrimination, provide inclusive benefits, and foster an inclusive culture.
Despite this reaffirmation, Disney has recently made adjustments to its DEI initiatives. The company removed diversity and inclusion as a standalone metric in its executive compensation plans, replacing it with a broader «talent strategy» metric. This change aligns with similar moves by other corporations distancing themselves from DEI initiatives, influenced by political pressures.
Against Donald Trump
These developments occur against the backdrop of President Donald Trump's administration, which has taken steps to dismantle federal DEI programs. In January 2025, President Trump signed executive orders defining gender strictly as male and female and revoking diversity requirements across federal agencies. This shift has placed corporations like Disney in a challenging position, balancing their internal DEI commitments with external political pressures.
However, despite its consistent support for LGBTQ+ inclusion, Disney’s decision to scale back certain DEI initiatives sparked internal dissent, with some employees expressing concerns about pandering to political forces, potentially undermining the company's longstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion.
This shift led to internal concerns, with some employees expressing discomfort over what they perceived as a compromise on Disney’s core values.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Disney's challenge lies in maintaining its core values of diversity and inclusion while navigating external pressures. The company's recent shareholder vote suggests a continued commitment to LGBTQ+ equality, even as it reassesses certain DEI initiatives in response to the current political climate.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion remain foundational to who we are as a company. We are committed to fostering a workplace and content that reflect the diverse communities we serve. Bob Iger CEO of The Walt Disney Company Comment about diversity in 2024
CC investigation adds new pressure
However, Disney’s DEI practices have according to BBC now come under federal scrutiny. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), under chairman Brendan Carr, announced an investigation into Disney’s diversity programs, questioning whether the company has complied with FCC equal employment opportunity (EEO) regulations. Carr’s letter to Bob Iger raised concerns that Disney’s DEI initiatives may have promoted diversity «in a manner that does not comply» with government rules.
Carr emphasized that the investigation seeks to determine whether Disney «ends any and all discriminatory initiatives in substance, not just name.» He also called for an evaluation of Disney’s diversity policies, including its approach to representing marginalized groups in its content.
Balancing inclusion with political realities
The FCC’s investigation comes at a time when Donald Trump’s administration has increased pressure on corporations to scale back DEI programs. In January 2025, Trump signed executive orders limiting federal DEI efforts, affecting companies with government contracts globally.
French companies with US contracts have also been asked to comply with these new regulations.
As Disney navigates this shifting landscape, the challenge lies in maintaining its inclusive mission while addressing mounting political and regulatory pressures. The outcome of the FCC investigation may have lasting implications for how media companies balance diversity initiatives with evolving governmental oversight.
Emphasized the importance of diversity
Over the past few years, Disney CEO Bob Iger has consistently emphasized the importance of diversity and inclusion within the company's storytelling and corporate culture. In a 2023 shareholders' meeting, Iger addressed concerns about Disney's political stances and content, stating that their primary mission is to entertain while having a positive impact on the world. He acknowledged that while not every piece of content will please everyone, the company strives to create stories that reflect a diverse world, promoting greater respect and acceptance.
In a 2024 interview, Iger emphasized that Disney’s primary mission is to entertain. While acknowledging that content often conveys positive messages, he clarified that the goal is not advocacy but to reflect a diverse world authentically.
Additionally, Iger has highlighted the importance of fostering a diversity of opinions within leadership. In his book, «The Ride of a Lifetime,» he noted that leaders must encourage diverse opinions balanced with the need to make and implement decisions.
Key facts - Disney’s diversity rules
The Walt Disney Company has built a strong reputation for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across its workforce, content, and global operations.
The company believes that a diverse and inclusive environment is essential for creativity, innovation, and long-term success.
Workforce diversity Disney actively works to build a workforce that reflects global communities. This includes increasing representation of women and underrepresented groups at all levels of the company, from entry-level positions to senior leadership.
Inclusive content creation Disney is committed to producing stories that showcase a wide range of perspectives and experiences. Through programs like “Future Storytellers,” the company provides training and career opportunities for young people from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that future content reflects global diversity.
Supplier diversity Disney spends billions annually with diverse suppliers, promoting economic opportunities for businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, and other underrepresented groups.
Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) Disney supports over 100 ERGs, which bring together employees with shared backgrounds or interests. These groups promote networking, support, and professional development, helping to build an inclusive workplace culture. ERG stands for Employee Resource Group.
These are voluntary, employee-led groups within a company that bring together people with shared identities, interests, or life experiences—such as race, gender, sexual orientation, or cultural background. ERGs aim to support diversity and inclusion in the workplace by fostering community, mentorship, networking, and professional growth.
At Disney, ERGs help create a more inclusive and supportive environment for employees by offering:
Events and workshops
Cultural celebrations
Leadership opportunities
Feedback to company leadership on diversity initiatives
Examples of ERGs might include groups for LGBTQ+ employees, women in leadership, veterans, or multicultural teams.
Recent changes in DEI strategy
In 2025, Disney made several adjustments to its DEI programs in response to business considerations and external political pressures. These included replacing «diversity and inclusion» as a metric in executive compensation plans with a broader «talent strategy» goal. The company also phased out certain branded DEI campaigns and simplified content advisories for older films.
While Disney has moved DEI from a standalone metric to a broader ‘talent strategy,’ company leadership insists that inclusivity remains integral to its business goals.
Potential concerns
The removal of explicit diversity goals could signal less focus on LGBTQ+ inclusion and accountability.
Critics worry this change might be a response to political pressure, especially with Donald Trump’s administration rolling back DEI efforts nationally.
Without clear DEI metrics, progress could slow or be deprioritized.
Possible positives
Disney has publicly stated that diversity and inclusion remain core values, and a broader «talent Strategy» could still include LGBTQ+ support—just under a wider umbrella.
If the «talent Strategy» focuses on inclusive leadership, innovation, and workforce growth, it could still benefit LGBTQ+ employees and representation, even without labeling it as DEI.
Balancing act between politics and inclusion
Disney is according to several sources faces ongoing challenges in balancing political pressures with its commitment to diversity and inclusion, risking reputational damage and alienation of key audiences.
Analysts suggest that Disney’s balancing act between inclusion and political pressures could have long-term financial implications, as public perception increasingly influences consumer loyalty and investor confidence.
1. Reputational damage and public backlash
Loss of trust among core audiences: A 2024 Morning Consult survey found that 64% of Gen Z consumers are more likely to support brands that reflect diversity and inclusion. If Disney scales back its DEI initiatives, it risks losing trust and loyalty from this core demographic.
Employee dissatisfaction: According to McKinsey’s 2023 Diversity Wins report, companies that invest in DEI are 25% more likely to outperform competitors. Cutting back on these efforts could lead to higher employee turnover and reduced morale.
Source: Morning Consult Report on Gen Z Brand Loyalty (2024)
Source: McKinsey & Company – Diversity Wins (2023)
2. Financial and business risks
Loss of brand loyalty and consumer support: Harvard Business Review reported in 2023 that companies that withdraw from DEI commitments often face long-term reputational and financial consequences, as modern consumers increasingly support ethical brands.
Potential drop in streaming subscribers: Following backlash over the perceived lack of diversity in content, Netflix faced a 5% decline in subscriptions in 2023, highlighting the financial risks Disney may face if it shifts away from DEI.
Source: Harvard Business Review – DEI and Brand Resilience (2023)
Source: Bloomberg – Netflix Subscriber Trends (2023)
3. Legal and regulatory challenges
Discrimination lawsuits: Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) data from 2023 showed an increase in discrimination claims against companies that scaled back diversity programs. Companies like Google and Amazon have faced similar lawsuits after modifying their diversity policies.
Government scrutiny: Legal experts note that while complying with FCC pressure might ease immediate concerns, Disney could face new challenges under state-level anti-discrimination laws.
4. Impact on creative content and storytelling
Shift in storytelling focus: UCLA’s Hollywood Diversity Report (2023) highlighted that films and shows with diverse casts consistently perform better at the box office and on streaming platforms. Scaling back diversity efforts could lead to content that fails to resonate with modern audiences.
Global market alienation: A 2024 PwC study found that international audiences, particularly in Asia and Latin America, prefer content that reflects their cultural identities. Moving away from inclusive storytelling could harm Disney’s market performance abroad.
5. Alienation of key partners and collaborators
Loss of creative partnerships: Filmmakers and actors have increasingly prioritized working with studios that reflect their values. Ava DuVernay, a vocal advocate for diversity in Hollywood, stated in a 2023 Variety interview that she prefers collaborating with studios committed to inclusivity.
Fractured relationships with advocacy groups: GLAAD and Human Rights Campaign (HRC) have historically supported Disney’s inclusion efforts but have criticized companies that scale back DEI commitments.
Source: Variety – Ava DuVernay on Diversity in Hollywood (2023)
Source: GLAAD Annual Media Report (2023)
Long-term consequences: Balancing business with politics
If Disney succumbs to FCC and political pressure, it risks alienating a significant portion of its audience and talent base. While the company may mitigate short-term regulatory risks, the long-term impact on Disney’s brand, content, and market standing could be far more damaging, potentially reversing years of progress in establishing itself as a champion of inclusion and representation.
As political pressures mount, Disney’s challenge lies in balancing its inclusive legacy with evolving external expectations. The recent shareholder vote signals a continued commitment, but future decisions will determine whether diversity and inclusion remain central to Disney’s narrative.
Disney’s presence at pride: A visible commitment to inclusivity
Disney has long demonstrated its commitment to LGBTQ+ inclusion not only through corporate policies but also through public participation in major LGBTQ+ events. One of the most visible expressions of this support occurred at the 2022 San Francisco Pride Parade, where Disney employees and allies marched under the banner «We are the magic.» This banner, carried by members of Disney’s LGBTQIA+ employee group, PRIDE (People Respecting Individuality, Diversity, and Equality), underscored the company’s unwavering solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community.
The significance of 2022
The 2022 parade held special significance as it marked the return of San Francisco Pride after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Disney’s participation that year was particularly symbolic, occurring at a time when the company was under intense scrutiny for opposing Florida’s «Don’t Say Gay» legislation (HB 1557), which limited discussions of sexual orientation and gender identity in classrooms. Despite the political backlash, Disney’s active presence at the parade signaled a firm stance on maintaining inclusivity at the core of its corporate values.
Ongoing participation in LGBTQ+ events
Disney’s involvement in Pride events is not limited to San Francisco. Over the years, Disney has participated in numerous Pride celebrations worldwide, reflecting a consistent dedication to supporting LGBTQ+ communities. Some notable events include:
Los Angeles Pride Parade: Disney has regularly taken part in LA’s Pride festivities, with employees and allies marching alongside other advocates.
Orlando come out With Pride: As the home of Walt Disney World, Orlando’s Pride events have frequently featured Disney’s active participation, underscoring its local and global commitment.
New York City Pride March: Disney has also been visible at one of the largest Pride parades in the world, aligning its brand with inclusion and diversity.
Expanding visibility and support
In addition to public appearances at Pride events, Disney has introduced «Pride Nite” celebrations at its theme parks. These after-hours events celebrate diversity, welcoming LGBTQ+ guests and allies with special entertainment, themed merchandise, and shows that highlight the importance of inclusion.
By maintaining a consistent presence at Pride events and fostering internal initiatives such as the PRIDE employee group, Disney reinforces its reputation as a company that values diversity and inclusion. As political pressures mount, Disney’s visible commitment to LGBTQ+ rights remains a defining aspect of its brand identity, sending a clear message to both supporters and critics.
