Disney Faces Employee Backlash After Policy Shift Under Trump’s Second Term
The Walt Disney Company, long known for its advocacy of diversity and inclusion, is facing mounting criticism from employees and industry insiders following recent changes to its policies. These adjustments come in response to new executive orders issued during former President Donald Trump’s second term, which have led many corporations to scale back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. While Disney claims its policy shift aligns with business goals rather than political pressure, employees and creatives see it as a significant departure from the company’s previous commitments.
A Change in Corporate Direction
Under CEO Bob Iger’s leadership, Disney previously took strong stances on social and political issues, even clashing with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis over legislation that impacted its theme parks. However, with Trump’s re-election in November 2024, the company has adjusted its approach, opting for compliance rather than resistance.
One of Trump’s key executive orders obligates businesses to reduce their DEI initiatives, a move that has already affected major corporations like Target and PBS. Disney, instead of opposing the order, is modifying its internal policies. In an internal memo, Sonia Coleman, Disney’s Chief of Human Resources, asserted that these changes were guided by “business goals and company values,” not external mandates. Employees, however, feel differently, with many expressing disappointment at what they perceive as a retreat from the company’s long-held principles.
One anonymous employee voiced their frustration, stating, “Disney has always championed inclusivity, but now it feels like they are stepping back rather than holding their ground.”
Concerns Over Content Censorship
One of the most contested changes has been the reported censorship of content on Disney+. Employees and creatives have noticed the adjustment of content warnings and the downplaying of LGBTQ+ representation in future projects.
Notably, Pixar allegedly removed a transgender storyline from an upcoming animated series, a decision that has frustrated members of the creative community who see this as a case of self-censorship prompted by political considerations. Insiders worry that these editorial shifts could stifle creativity and dilute Disney’s reputation as a company that embraces diverse narratives.
Controversy Surrounding Star Wars: The Acolyte
Another decision stirring controversy is the cancellation of *Star Wars: The Acolyte*, a Disney+ series that had garnered significant viewership before being ended after just one season. The cancellation followed a wave of online harassment directed at the cast, many of whom represented diverse backgrounds.
Jodie Turner-Smith, one of the stars of the show, publicly criticized Disney and Lucasfilm for not defending the cast against racist and misogynistic attacks. “When our team faced backlash, Disney remained silent,” an industry insider shared. “For a company that has built its brand around inclusivity, their failure to take a stand is telling.”
Larger Corporate Trends in a Changing Political Climate
Disney’s response mirrors a broader trend among major corporations adjusting to the realities of Trump’s second term. Fearing regulatory action and public scrutiny, several businesses are scaling back progressive initiatives. While some argue that companies must be pragmatic, others believe this shift represents an abandonment of social responsibility in favor of corporate survival.
Critics worry that Disney’s choices set a precedent for other corporations. Rather than leading the charge on inclusivity, Disney’s decision to downplay its DEI programs raises important questions—should corporations adapt to political changes, or should they uphold their commitments to progress, even when facing external pressure?
A Defining Moment for Disney
Disney’s recent policy adjustments have generated strong reactions from employees and fans who once saw the company as a leader in corporate inclusivity. While Disney presents these changes as aligned with business objectives, many within the organization feel let down.
As the company moves forward, its handling of these challenges will determine whether it can repair trust with employees, creatives, and audiences. The coming years will reveal whether Disney reaffirms its dedication to inclusivity or if this moment marks a lasting change in its corporate priorities.
