Walmart recently announced that it is discontinuing some of its diversity initiatives, including removing LGBTQ-related merchandise from its website and winding down a nonprofit that funded programs for minorities. This decision comes amid a trend of companies scaling back diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in response to pressure from conservative activists and the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on affirmative action programs. Other companies such as Tractor Supply, Lowe’s, Ford, and Molson Coors have also walked back on their equity and inclusion policies in recent months.
Walmart stated that it is committed to evolving with its employees and customers in order to foster a sense of belonging and open doors to opportunities for all. The company will no longer allow third-party sellers to offer certain LGBTQ-themed items on its website, and has stopped sharing data with organizations that track LGBTQ policies. Additionally, Walmart is phasing out supplier diversity programs and moving away from using the term “diversity, equity, and inclusion” in its documentation and employee titles.
Despite these changes, Walmart will continue to provide funding for events like Pride parades through grants and disaster relief, albeit with more specific guidelines. The decision to make these changes was partially influenced by pressure from conservative activist Robby Starbuck, who had threatened a consumer boycott of the company. Walmart had discussions with Starbuck and had already begun implementing some of these changes prior to their conversation. Overall, Walmart’s decision to adjust its diversity initiatives reflects a broader trend of companies reevaluating their approach to diversity and inclusion efforts.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
