Marriott’s CEO and President, Anthony Capuano, addressed the positive support received after the company’s approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) during the Great Place to Work for All Summit. At this event, Capuano shared insights on cultural and workplace changes related to DEI, highlighting encouragement from tens of thousands of supportive emails from colleagues.
Capuano mentioned that following the announcement of a DEI executive order, he engaged with Marriott’s senior leadership to align their strategies and communication regarding DEI. During a significant hotel industry conference, Capuano participated in multiple media engagements where DEI was a primary topic of discussion.
Under former President Donald Trump’s administration, executive orders were issued to dismantle DEI offices in federal government and reverse the DEI initiatives previously established. This led several major U.S. companies, such as Amazon, Meta, and Walmart, to scale back their DEI policies.
Capuano expressed reliance on Marriott’s longstanding principles when responding to questions about DEI, noting that despite changing political environments, the company remains committed to welcoming all guests and maintaining equal opportunities.
He shared that after addressing the public on DEI, he was reassured by receiving approximately 40,000 emails from Marriott associates worldwide, thanking him for his stance.
