Nearly two-thirds of large companies that filed proxy statements this month have slashed language on board diversity, according to new research by Agenda.

The changes follow the release of several executive orders from President Donald Trump, one of which directs companies with federal contracts to cease operating “unlawful” diversity, equity and inclusion programs, and correspond to an ongoing backlash against DEI led by certain political groups.

…Now, companies broadly are going mum on board diversity initiatives altogether. The move began last year, with mentions of board diversity in corporate governance guidelines dropping from 834 in 2023 to 745 in 2024, according to public company intelligence provider MyLogIQ.