Fewer Americans View Racial Discrimination as Widespread, Amid Backlash Against DEI

Public perception of racial discrimination in the U.S. has shifted significantly since 2021, according to a new AP-NORC poll (Associated Press). Less than half of Americans now believe Black people face high levels of discrimination, down from 60% after George Floyd’s death. Views on anti-Asian discrimination also dropped sharply.

Less than half of Americans now believe Black people face high levels of discrimination, down from 60% after George Floyd’s death.

The survey reveals growing skepticism about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Roughly 40% of Americans think DEI helps reduce discrimination against Black people, while similar or fewer say it helps women, Hispanics, or Asian Americans. Meanwhile, about a quarter believe DEI actually increases discrimination, including against the very groups it's designed to support.

This sentiment is reflected among some minorities: 40% of Black adults and a third of Hispanic adults say DEI efforts can backfire, often leading others to question their qualifications and assume they were hired to meet quotas.

The poll also shows that about 3 in 10 Americans — and nearly 4 in 10 white adults — believe DEI increases discrimination against white people. Still, the majority say DEI makes no real difference for white people or men.

As companies and institutions scale back DEI efforts under political and legal pressure, these shifts in public opinion suggest that not only policies, but attitudes, are changing.

While some still see value in DEI’s original goals, others express frustration with its execution, fearing it's fostering division and undermining merit-based decisions.

Methodology:

The Associated Press poll "AP-NORC" surveyed 1,437 U.S. adults from July 10–14, 2025, with a margin of error of ±3.6%.

Statement from the Citizens' Coalition for Change:

The Citizens' Coalition for Change agrees with the growing public skepticism surrounding claims of widespread systemic discrimination. We believe that DEI, when implemented with integrity, is a powerful tool for promoting opportunity and mutual respect in society. However, we do not support the culture of victimhood as a solution to social problems. Real and lasting progress comes from education, strong family values, and personal responsibility—not dependency or grievance-based narratives.