DEI Under Attack, What Businesses Need to Know About the FCC’s Disney Investigation

In January, the FCC announced an investigation into Disney's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) practices. On its face, this might seem like a niche regulatory action. But when viewed through an impact lens, it's a signal flare.

What we're seeing is a political move with cultural consequences. DEI has long been a target in public discourse, but targeting a media powerhouse like Disney could have ripple effects across industries. If Disney can be scrutinized for investing in inclusion, what message does that send to other media and marketing companies?

Why it matters: Media shapes perception. When DEI initiatives are silenced, so too are the stories and identities of people who have historically been left out. For businesses, this isn’t just a moral issue—it’s a risk factor. Pulling back on inclusive representation can alienate consumers, disrupt talent pipelines, and contradict brand values.

What you can do:

• Reaffirm your commitment to inclusive storytelling and ensure it’s embedded in your media strategy.

• Fund content creators and platforms that prioritize diverse representation.

• Assess where your media dollars go: are your ad buys supporting inclusion, or enabling erasure?