Deloitte US announced policy changes impacting employees working on government contracts and the firm’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs.
The Big Four consulting firm has instructed consultants in its government and public services practice to remove gender pronouns from their email signatures, aligning with emerging client requirements and shifting political dynamics in the U.S.
Many view this move as a response to the Trump administration’s policies. The administration has issued executive orders to ” restore biological truth to the federal government.” These orders acknowledge only two sexes in official documents and messaging. While they do not directly regulate private companies, they mandate that government agencies ensure federal funds do not support the promotion of “gender ideology.”
US Deloitte and Accenture Policy Changes
Deloitte US is not alone in adjusting its policies. Accenture, another major consulting firm, recently scrapped its global diversity goals and demographic-specific career programs, citing the need to adapt to the new U.S. political landscape. Similarly, Deloitte US has decided to “sunset” its DEI goals, annual diversity reports, and related programming, according to the Financial Times.
The firm confirmed that the guidance on email signatures was specific to its government and public services practice but declined to comment on the broader changes to its DEI targets. Deloitte US had previously set ambitious DEI goals for 2025, including spending $200 million with Black-led businesses and improving the gender and ethnic diversity of its U.S. partners, principals, and managing directors.
Despite these changes, Deloitte US has reiterated its commitment to diversity and inclusion, stating that “everyone is welcome at Deloitte.” The firm will continue to run certain initiatives, such as Heritage Month events, internal ethnic networks, and inclusion councils. However, the decision to phase out formal DEI goals has raised concerns about the company’s long-term commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace.
Deloitte US emphasized its dedication to compliance with government regulations in a statement: “As a U.S. government contractor, we have a long-standing track record of compliance with new governmental requirements.”
The policy changes at Deloitte and Accenture highlight the growing influence of government regulations on private companies and their DEI initiatives. As federal policies change, companies must increasingly navigate the tension between compliance and their dedication to diversity and inclusion.
This trend has sparked a broader debate about the role of government in shaping corporate practices and the potential impact on workplace diversity. Critics argue that scaling back DEI programs could hinder progress toward creating more equitable and inclusive environments, while proponents of the changes cite the need to align with federal mandates.
