As broadcasters’ diversity, equity, and inclusion programs face mounting political and regulatory scrutiny, that effect has bled over to the advertising world, as two of the world’s largest agencies have moved to soften their public DEI commitments.
WPP and IPG recently removed or altered diversity-related language on their websites, per Marketing Brew, as Washington keeps a close eye on the issue. President Trump pledged to end DEI initiatives within the federal government, but that oversight has been spilling out into the public sector.
At WPP, the company deleted a paragraph from its “Belonging” webpage after November 2024. The now-removed section had emphasized a goal of building a workforce that reflects diverse communities and promoted racial equity. In WPP’s 2024 annual report, the language shifted to a broader reference to “people and culture.”
WPP CEO Mark Read wrote, “In today’s complex world, a pressing question for brands and organisations is whether to engage on social issues in a more contested public arena, and how to navigate the expectations of different audiences with competing views on sensitive topics.”
“At WPP, our aim has always been to foster a culture of respect for one another in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers. Like all companies with operations in the United States, we are monitoring developments and keeping any implications for our business under ongoing review. We will continue to meet legal requirements in all our markets.”
Meanwhile, IPG removed language from its “Diversity and Inclusion” webpage tying executive incentive pay directly to achieving diversity objectives. The revision occurred between February 20 and March 31, 2025, based on archived captures.
For IPG, the timing is particularly sensitive. The company is in the process of a proposed merger with Omnicom, currently under review by the Federal Trade Commission. IPG has not publicly commented on the change.
Their situation could mirror the future for broadcasters, as FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has warned that active DEI programs could become a liability for companies seeking Commission approvals. Carr has said the FCC could block license transfers and other transactions if companies maintain what he described as “invidious forms of DEI discrimination.”
Under Carr, NBCUniversal parent company Comcast is facing an active FCC investigation into its diversity efforts.
As the regulatory environment shifts, radio broadcasters should not only be mindful that the FCC is watching, but major advertising groups may be increasingly wary of internal policies of who they do business with, as progressive corporate governance is now viewed as a potential regulatory risk.
