Mark Zuckerberg’s CZI Ends DEI Programs, Shifts Focus to AI and Science

The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI), a philanthropic foundation co-founded by Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan, has announced a major restructuring in its funding and operational priorities. In a significant shift, CZI is dismantling its Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA) team and withdrawing support from social advocacy initiatives.

This development was communicated to employees through an internal email and follows a similar move by Meta, Mark Zuckerberg’s technology conglomerate, which also recently ended its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs.

Regulatory and Legal Changes Cited as Primary Reason

According to a news agency, CZI’s Chief Operating Officer Marc Malandro explained in an email to employees that this change was driven by regulatory and legal adjustments. As a result, the organization has also decided to terminate its Diverse Slate Practice, a hiring initiative designed to ensure that job candidates from diverse backgrounds were actively considered.

A Strategic Shift Towards Science and AI

With the dismantling of its DEIA team, CZI is redirecting its focus toward scientific philanthropy, particularly in the fields of biology and artificial intelligence (AI). Malandro emphasized that this new approach is aligned with CZI’s evolving mission.

However, this move has sparked concerns among employees, as it closely mirrors Meta’s decision to discontinue DEI programs, raising speculation that the political climate under former President Donald Trump’s administration is influencing these changes.

Impact on Social Advocacy Initiatives

In addition to the DEIA team’s dissolution, CZI has halted its support for social advocacy programs, including initiatives related to immigration reform and racial equity. While the organization has confirmed that multi-year grants will continue to be honored, Malandro clarified that none of these funds will be allocated toward political activism.

Cancellation of Science Diversity Leadership Awards

Another controversial decision made by CZI is the abrupt cancellation of the Science Diversity Leadership awards, which previously offered $1.15 million grants to underrepresented researchers. Applicants who had been expecting results this month were informed that the program had been discontinued, without any formal justification from the organization.

Website Modifications and Removal of Diversity Commitments

The shift in CZI’s policies has also been reflected in its website content. All references to corporate diversity, economic inclusion, and racial equity efforts have been removed. Furthermore, mentions of CZI’s commitment to diversity in scientific research have disappeared, and pages highlighting employees' diverse backgrounds are no longer available.

Concerns Over the Disbanding of Community Team

Employees have also voiced concerns regarding the elimination of the Community Team, which was responsible for initiatives related to affordable housing and economic inclusion. The leader of this team is set to leave next month, further solidifying the organization’s complete shift away from inclusivity-related projects.

Conclusion

The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative’s decision to eliminate its DEIA programs and social advocacy funding signifies a dramatic shift in its philanthropic strategy. With a new emphasis on scientific research and artificial intelligence, the organization is stepping away from inclusivity-driven efforts, mirroring recent changes made by Meta. While regulatory and legal factors have been cited as reasons for these changes, internal concerns suggest a deeper alignment with evolving political and corporate landscapes.

For stakeholders and researchers who relied on CZI’s diversity programs, this move raises critical questions about the future of equitable funding and advocacy efforts in philanthropy. As CZI transitions into a science-focused institution, it remains to be seen how this new direction will shape its long-term impact on society, research, and technological advancements.