TOKYO, JP — (June 8, 2025) — In a bold statement during Tokyo Pride, Daiwa Securities Group CEO Akihiko Ogino urged Japan to move forward with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives despite efforts in the United States to roll back such policies.
Speaking before the start of Tokyo Pride near the vibrant Shibuya district, Ogino emphasized that it is “important to recognise that there are people with different viewpoints” and to work together to build a more inclusive society.
His remarks come as President Donald Trump intensifies his efforts to dismantle DEI initiatives across the US, a campaign that has already led some American financial institutions to scale back their diversity programs.
Ogino’s comments at Tokyo Pride mark his first appearance at the event, which organisers describe as an advocacy platform for LGBTQ rights and dignity. His remarks also stand out in Japan’s corporate landscape, where few leaders have spoken publicly about Trump’s anti-DEI agenda.
“Even if the US has adopted an anti-DEI policy, Japan should press ahead and make up for lost time rather than following suit,” Ogino said, reinforcing Daiwa’s support for workplace inclusivity.
Japan, grappling with a declining and aging population, is increasingly turning to diversity initiatives to expand its talent pool, including embracing gender and sexual minorities. Major financial firms such as Nomura Holdings, Goldman Sachs, and Deutsche Bank also backed this year’s Tokyo Pride parade as sponsors, reflecting a broader commitment to inclusivity.
The Trump administration’s rollback has created dilemmas for global corporations. Citigroup Inc., for instance, has already withdrawn some of its DEI goals, while other US-based financial institutions have been forced to adjust their policies.
Ogino clarified that he doesn’t necessarily oppose the views of those backing the anti-DEI movement in the US, but stressed the need for mutual respect and collaboration. “I believe we should acknowledge such diversity, recognise the differences between ourselves and others, and work together while respecting each other,” he said.
While Daiwa’s exposure to American markets accounted for less than 7% of its profits last fiscal year, the company’s stance signals a broader commitment to DEI within Japan.
Meanwhile, other Japanese firms have adjusted their US operations. Nissan and Toyota have scaled back some DEI initiatives in the US under pressure from conservative activists. Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Inc. removed references to DEI from its American websites but kept them in place for other markets, framing the move as part of a global digital restructure.
A March survey by the Mainichi newspaper found that 83% of Japanese companies see DEI initiatives as essential for attracting and retaining talent—a clear sign of Japan’s ongoing push to embrace diversity.
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