BlackRock Removes DEI References Amid Political and Legal Shifts

The asset manager's latest annual report shifts focus away from diversity, equity, and inclusion language under increasing scrutiny from political and regulatory pressures.

BlackRock's 2025 annual report omits references to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), replacing them with terms like 'connectivity and inclusivity.'
The company removed its three-pillar DEI strategy and no longer includes gender and racial workforce demographics in its report.
This change follows President Donald Trump's executive order targeting DEI programs and broader political backlash against 'woke' corporate practices.
BlackRock CEO Larry Fink has faced criticism from both political conservatives for being 'too woke' and climate activists for insufficient environmental action.
Other major financial firms, including Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Goldman Sachs, have similarly scaled back DEI initiatives in response to legal and political pressures.