The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has launched an investigation into Disney’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, intensifying scrutiny on media companies over compliance with government regulations. FCC chairman Brendan Carr notified Disney and its ABC News division of the inquiry, citing concerns that the company’s DEI initiatives may not align with regulatory requirements.
Disney, known for its globally influential media empire, responded to the announcement by stating it is reviewing the letter and is prepared to engage with the commission to address its concerns. “We look forward to engaging with the commission to answer its questions,” a Disney spokesperson said in a statement.
Carr, who was appointed by former President Donald Trump to lead the FCC, has been actively investigating media firms over their DEI programs. His letter to Disney’s CEO, Robert Iger, expressed concerns that the company may still be engaging in practices that violate equal employment opportunity regulations. “I want to ensure that Disney and ABC have not been violating FCC equal employment opportunity regulations by promoting invidious forms of DEI discrimination,” Carr stated.
This probe into Disney follows a broader crackdown on DEI practices under the Trump administration. Recently, French companies with U.S. government contracts received letters from the American embassy in France, instructing them to comply with Trump’s executive order banning DEI initiatives. The order asserts that restrictions apply to all government suppliers, regardless of their country of operation.
Disney has made adjustments to its DEI programs this year, but Carr insists that questions remain. “While I have seen reports that Disney recently walked back some of its DEI programs, significant concerns remain,” he noted. The FCC’s review extends beyond employment policies, as Carr has requested details regarding Disney’s diversity representation in its programming and other initiatives.
The investigation marks another political flashpoint for Disney. The company previously clashed with Republican Florida Governor Ron DeSantis over the state’s controversial “Don’t Say Gay” law, which restricts discussions of sexuality in schools. Additionally, Disney agreed last year to pay $15 million to settle a defamation lawsuit after an ABC anchor mischaracterized a legal case involving Trump.
As the FCC expands its focus on media companies, including NPR, PBS, and NBCUniversal, Disney now finds itself at the center of a contentious debate over DEI policies and government oversight.
