The rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives is intensifying as President-elect Donald Trump and major corporations lead the charge.

Trump has tapped conservative activist Christopher Rufo to draft a federal plan tying university funding to the removal of DEI programs, threatening billions of dollars in aid to institutions like Harvard, which received $686 million in research funds last year.

Rufo, known for his controversial views on race and gender, aims to eliminate what he calls discrimination under the guise of DEI.

Meanwhile, Walmart, the nation's largest private employer, has abandoned key racial equity goals, supplier diversity initiatives, and its participation in the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index. Critics argue these rollbacks undermine progress and disproportionately harm marginalized communities.

Corporations and policymakers are turning their backs on equity. Advocates warn the fight for inclusion faces a pivotal moment.

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