Less Than Half Americans Believe Black People Face Discrimination, Poll Finds

A recent AP-NORC poll reveals a significant decline in the number of Americans who believe that Black and Asian people face high levels of discrimination, dropping from 60% in 2021 to 45% in 2025. This shift coincides with the Trump administration's rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, which some Black Americans report has worsened workplace discrimination and fueled skepticism about DEI's effectiveness. The poll also highlights a change in public perception, with a majority now viewing immigrants without legal status as the group facing the most discrimination, reflecting the administration's aggressive immigration policies. Additionally, the survey found that Black and Hispanic respondents are more likely than white respondents to believe DEI programs increase discrimination against minorities, while overall support for DEI benefits remains low across racial and political lines. Experts note that the decline in belief about discrimination against Black Americans signals a broader societal backslide from the racial reckoning following George Floyd's murder. Personal accounts echo this sentiment, describing how DEI initiatives have become politicized and stigmatized, impacting the experiences of Black individuals in education and employment.