An awkward truth has become evident in the first days of the Trump administration, as many firms mute their commitments to diversity and sustainability.

A prominent group of chief executives said almost six years ago that making profits for shareholders was only part of their business — and not necessarily the main part.

Speaking collectively as the Business Roundtable, C.E.O.s from companies like Johnson & Johnson, FedEx, Wells Fargo and Amazon said that, really, they were devoted to serving employees and customers, protecting the environment and treating suppliers ethically.

Thank you, I wrote in a column back then. And may I sell you a bridge?

Now that many companies are muting their commitments to programs embracing diversity, equity and inclusion, as well as to environmental sustainability, I can’t say I’m shocked.

The Trump administration has declared D.E.I. to be “illegal” and “immoral.” It has derided efforts to ensure “sustainability” and stave off climate change as

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