What's happened
Recent polls show a decline in Americans' perception of racial discrimination, especially against Black and Asian communities, since 2021. The trend coincides with increased political pressure on diversity initiatives, with many companies and institutions rolling back DEI efforts amid criticism and government threats.
What's behind the headline?
Shifting perceptions reflect broader political and social dynamics
The decline in Americans perceiving high levels of discrimination against Black and Asian communities suggests a significant change in public opinion since 2021. This shift aligns with the rollback of DEI initiatives by corporations and the political rhetoric framing such efforts as divisive or harmful.
- The polls indicate that only 45% now believe Black people face high discrimination, down from 60% in 2021.
- Similarly, perceptions of discrimination against Asian Americans have decreased from 45% to 32%.
- Despite these declines, a majority still acknowledge discrimination against Hispanic and Muslim groups.
This change may be driven by political narratives that frame DEI efforts as quotas or reverse discrimination, which are reinforced by government threats to withhold federal funding. The political climate under President Trump has actively sought to undermine these initiatives, framing them as racially biased against white people.
The public's skepticism about DEI's benefits further complicates efforts to address racial disparities. Many believe DEI either has no effect or worsens discrimination, especially among Black and Hispanic respondents.
The long-term impact of this shift could be a further retreat from policies aimed at racial equity, potentially entrenching existing inequalities. It also signals a polarization in how race and discrimination are perceived, with political and social forces shaping opinions more than lived experiences.
What the papers say
The articles from Al Jazeera, AP News, and The Independent all highlight the decline in perceived discrimination and skepticism towards DEI efforts among Americans. Al Jazeera emphasizes the political context, noting President Trump's criticism and threats against institutions promoting diversity. AP News and The Independent provide detailed survey data, showing a drop from 60% to around 45% in perceptions of high discrimination against Black Americans since 2021. They also discuss the broader societal implications, including the rollback of DEI initiatives and the framing of these efforts as divisive. While all sources agree on the trend, Al Jazeera offers a more critical view of the political motivations behind the shift, whereas AP and The Independent focus on the changing public opinion metrics and their implications for policy and social cohesion.
How we got here
Following the protests after George Floyd's killing in 2020, many US companies and institutions launched diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Over time, and especially under political pressure from the Trump administration, many of these efforts have been scaled back or criticized, leading to shifting public perceptions about discrimination and the effectiveness of DEI policies.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Do Americans Perceive Less Discrimination Now in 2025?
Recent surveys indicate a notable decline in Americans' perception of racial discrimination, especially against Black and Asian communities, since 2021. This shift raises questions about what’s driving these changing attitudes and how political and social factors are influencing public opinion. Are diversity efforts truly rolling back, or is this a sign of evolving perspectives? Below, we explore the key reasons behind this trend and what it means for society today.
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Why Are Political and Economic Shifts Changing How People View Discrimination?
Recent developments in politics and the economy are influencing public perceptions of discrimination and diversity efforts. As debates around race, identity, and social policies evolve, many wonder how these shifts impact societal attitudes. Below, we explore key questions about how politics and economics shape our views on discrimination and what this means for the future.
More on these topics
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George Perry Floyd Jr. was an African American man killed during an arrest after a store clerk alleged he had passed a counterfeit $20 bill in Minneapolis.
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Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.