Observed Signal · Oct 16, 2023 · Analysis · Source: CMSWire · Impact: 2/5 · Sentiment: Positive
Diversity Fatigue: How Brands Can Keep Momentum Going
The article discusses 'diversity fatigue' among brands, examining its causes such as societal pushback, anti-DEI legislation, budget cuts, and employee burnout. It highlights the business benefits of DEI, including improved customer loyalty and innovation. The piece cites a Deloitte report showing 57% of customers are more loyal to brands addressing social inequities. It also covers recent political actions, including Florida and Texas banning DEI in universities and the Supreme Court striking down affirmative action. Experts from JOYFull BadAss, Benevity, Heap, and SurveyMonkey offer advice on sustaining DEI momentum, emphasizing realistic expectations, celebrating small wins, and embedding DEI in company culture. The article concludes that despite challenges, DEI remains essential for marketing and advertising success.
Highlights the importance of DEI in marketing and advertising, but no major industry shift.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- A 2021 Deloitte report found that 57% of customers are more loyal to brands that commit to addressing social inequities.
- Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a bill banning DEI programs in public colleges and universities in May 2023.
- Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed a bill banning DEI offices and initiatives in universities in June 2023.
- The U.S. Supreme Court struck down Affirmative Action in June 2023.
- Two dozen anti-DEI bills have been introduced in 15 states over the past year, according to the Chronicle of Higher Education.
Connected Companies & Entities
4 Entities mapped“Antoine Andrews, chief diversity and social impact officer at the survey software provider, SurveyMonkey, told CMSWire......”
“battle against Disney, a brand that has been extremely supportive of the LGBTQ community......”
“A 2021 Deloitte report indicated that 57% of customers are more loyal to brands that commit to addressing social inequities....”
“There is a growing body of evidence from McKinsey that shows that companies committed to DEI have better business performance....”
Ontology Mapping & Concepts
Related Market Signals & Shifts
Recent verified developments and strategic activity across this market segment.
Walmart's Vizio Bets on MrBeast, Holiday Films for Streaming
Walmart-owned Vizio is significantly investing in its free ad-supported streaming service, WatchFree+, to boost advertising opportunities for brands. The company announced new content partnerships with major studios including MGM, NBCUniversal, Disney, A&E, and A24, and will add creator-led channels from digital personalities such as MrBeast, Hot Ones, and others. Vizio is also producing its first original feature-length holiday film, 'Jingle Bells Wedding Bells,' starring Rachel Bilson and Scott Foley, with GEICO as presenting sponsor. These moves aim to attract high-income viewers and Walmart's suppliers and marketplace sellers to advertise on the platform. WatchFree+ has grown to reach 27 million devices, a 25% year-over-year increase, with viewing hours up 58% year-over-year.
Super Bowl LXI to Stream on Disney+
Disney announced that Disney+ will livestream Super Bowl LXI on February 14, 2027, alongside broadcasts on ESPN and ABC. U.S. subscribers can watch the traditional game presentation with Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, Lisa Salters, and Laura Rutledge. The stream will also be available in over 55 international markets, while ESPN's linear platforms will carry the game in more than 130 countries. Additionally, two Monday Night Football regular-season games will be available on Disney+ starting October 26, 2026, including the Dallas Cowboys vs. Philadelphia Eagles matchup. Disney+ will offer both English and Spanish language broadcasts for these games. This marks a significant expansion of Disney's streaming strategy for major live sports events.
Disney Seeks to Block FCC Early ABC License Review
Disney is asking a federal judge to halt the Federal Communications Commission's early review of ABC's broadcast licenses, claiming the action is retaliation by the Trump administration and an attempt to censor the network. Attorney Beth Wilkinson argued in court that the FCC is singling out ABC's eight stations due to political dislike of its coverage, violating First Amendment rights. The FCC justifies the early review, originally slated for 2028, by citing Disney's inadequate response to an investigation into its DEI practices. During the hearing, the judge questioned the FCC's rationale, requesting justification by week's end. This case follows ABC's earlier filings and complaints accusing the FCC of censorship.
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