The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has launched an investigation into the Walt Disney Company and its ABC television network amid allegations of potential violations of equality employment regulations tied to their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices. FCC Chair Brendan Carr, appointed by former President Trump, raised concerns that Disney's DEI initiatives may promote discriminatory practices.

In a letter addressed to Disney's CEO Robert Iger, Carr stated that the FCC's enforcement bureau will evaluate past and current DEI policies to determine compliance with established regulations. The investigation follows reports indicating that Disney has significantly altered its approach to DEI, retracting certain initiatives and adjusting its messaging. For instance, the messaging around classic films on NPR has changed, with Disney+ shortening warnings about racist stereotypes.

Carr noted in his letter, “Numerous reports indicate that Disney's leadership went all in on invidious forms of DEI discrimination a few years ago and apparently did so in a manner that infected many aspects of your company's decisions.” This scrutiny extends to Disney's Reimagine Tomorrow initiative, which Carr argues served as a platform to further DEI objectives. Although Disney has recently shifted some of its policies, Carr insists that these changes must transcend cosmetic adjustments to meaningfully end any discriminatory practices.

The inquiry also scrutinizes past policies, including ABC's stipulations requiring that at least 50% of recurring characters be from “underrepresented groups.” This mandate was part of a 2020 update aiming to enhance inclusion within the network's programming. In light of these developments, Disney has acknowledged the FCC's inquiry, expressing eagerness to engage with the commission to address its questions.

Carr's actions mirror similar investigations he initiated earlier with other media giants, including Comcast and Verizon, reflecting a broader regulatory interest in corporate diversity initiatives across media outlets. As Disney reassesses its DEI framework, the outcomes of the FCC’s investigation may have lasting implications for corporate policies regarding inclusion in the entertainment industry.

For further information, you can read more at Reuters, Forbes, and NPR.