Corporate DEI: How messaging is evolving

A study of Fortune 100 DEI language

Fortune 100 companies are changing how they talk about DEI.

Fortune 100 companies are changing how they talk about DEI.  Our language analysis of data collected from over 1,000 issue reports, SEC filings, earnings calls, and more, support media theories that corporations are leaning toward more neutral and inclusivity-focused terminology when speaking about DEI efforts.

Our language analysis of data collected from over 1,000 Fortune 100 issue reports, SEC filings, and earnings calls supports recent news coverage that corporate DEI messaging–which held a strong posture in 2023–is on the retreat.

Many Fortune 100 companies are neutralizing external messaging on diversity, shifting away from terminology that spurred conservative corporate backlash and toward more neutral language like “belonging” and “diverse experiences” when talking about diversity efforts. 

Complete the form to download our report on Changes in Corporate DEI Messaging including our full analysis, a recap of the risks inherent with these adjustments, and what to consider as you evaluate your messaging strategy around DEI.

Related Posts

5 Findings That Defined DEI in 2025 — And What to Expect in 2026

In 2025, DEI discourse was shaped by heightened federal scrutiny and shifting public expectations, prompting…
Read more

Anticipating the Trends Shaping Reputation Risks in 2026

The separation between business operations and political narratives is likely to fade in 2026, as…
Read more

How DEI Has Evolved: Insights from Fortune 500 DEI Leaders (Part 2)

As political and social dynamics continue to shift, companies are balancing sustained commitments to inclusion…
Read more