How Business Leaders Can Navigate Current Policy Changes
In today's fast-evolving landscape of business, policy, and society, leaders find themselves at a pivotal moment—one that demands awareness and strategic action. Whether you’re leading a Fortune 500 company, running a small business, or championing inclusivity in your workplace, understanding the interplay between government policies, corporate responses, and social movements is essential.
I had the pleasure of speaking at the Austin LGBT Chamber of Commerce February luncheon, and one key theme emerged: Civics is not just for policymakers—it’s for business leaders, too. The decisions made in Washington and state legislatures ripple through every boardroom and every employee handbook. So, what do you need to know? Let’s dive in.
The Power of Executive Actions
Presidents have increasingly turned to executive actions—executive orders, memoranda, and proclamations—to shape policies that directly impact businesses and workplaces. These actions influence everything from DEI initiatives to workplace discrimination protections, federal contracting rules, and even corporate hiring practices.
For example:
Executive Order 13672 (2014) prohibited federal contractors from discriminating based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
Recent executive orders have rolled back many DEI initiatives, affecting hiring practices and federal contracts.
State laws are becoming a battleground, with some states rolling back LGBTQ+ protections while others are strengthening them.
For leaders and allies, this means staying ahead of policy shifts isn’t optional—it’s a necessity.
Misinformation & Democracy: A Business Issue
The rise of misinformation and social media echo chambers isn’t just a political problem—it’s a business challenge. Studies show that misinformation reduces civic engagement and erodes trust in institutions, including businesses.
71% of U.S. voters encounter misinformation at least monthly.
Misinformation can impact workplace culture, influencing employee morale, policy discussions, and even hiring decisions.
Companies are now among the most trusted institutions in the U.S. Employees look to their workplaces for clarity and truth.
As a leader, fostering media literacy and open dialogue in your organization is more than a social responsibility—it’s a strategic business move.
The Corporate Response: Scaling Back or Standing Strong?
There’s a growing divide in how corporations are responding to the evolving DEI landscape:
Some companies, like JPMorgan and Costco, continue to champion diversity initiatives.
Others, like Target, are pulling back on DEI reporting and minority-focused programs.
For businesses operating in multiple states, navigating conflicting policies has become a legal and operational headache.
What can you do?
Consult legal and HR teams to ensure compliance with changing laws.
Assess federal and state-level policies to determine how they impact hiring, benefits, and corporate culture.
Stay informed and advocate for workplace policies that align with your company’s values.
Offer nonpartisan civics education and engagement opportunities as a way to build trust with employees and customers.
Civic Engagement as a Competitive Advantage
At the IGC Institute (IGCI), our nonpartisan nonprofit champions civics education in the workplace, emphasizing that informed employees strengthen businesses. Reminder: our belief is that cvics isn’t about politics—it’s about participation.
Companies that empower employees with civics education:
Foster trust and engagement within their teams.
Encourage participation in democracy, which contributes to a stable economy.
Create stronger workplace cultures rooted in inclusion and fairness.
What Can You Do Now?
Get informed. Policies are shifting rapidly. Monitor executive orders, state-level legislation, and corporate responses.
Review policies. Ensure your workplace initiatives comply with new laws while staying true to your organization’s mission.
Engage employees in civic education. Programs like those from IGCI provide nonpartisan tools to empower teams.
Build partnerships. Collaboration with advocacy groups, policymakers, and corporate allies can amplify impact.
Final Thought: Progress, Not Politics
The most successful leaders understand that civics isn’t about taking sides—it’s about showing up. It’s about ensuring that workplaces remain spaces of trust, innovation, and inclusivity.
Whether you're in the C-suite or just starting your career, the question remains: How will you lead in 2025?
Let’s connect, collaborate, and keep building a future that works for everyone. And hey—let’s do it over tacos. 🌮