Walmart recently announced the end of some of its diversity initiatives, including removing LGBTQ-related merchandise from its website and winding down a nonprofit that supported minority programs. This decision comes amid a trend of companies stepping back from diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, influenced by conservative activism and a Supreme Court ruling against affirmative action. Other companies like Tractor Supply, Lowe’s, Ford, and Molson Coors have also scaled back similar initiatives.
Walmart stated that its decisions come from a desire to foster a sense of belonging and provide opportunities for all employees, customers, and suppliers. The company will no longer allow third-party sellers to offer certain LGBTQ-themed items on its website, and it has stopped sharing data with organizations like the Human Rights Campaign. Additionally, Walmart is phasing out supplier diversity programs and moving away from using the term “diversity, equity, and inclusion” in its communications.
While Walmart will continue to support events like Pride parades and provide disaster relief funding, it plans to implement stricter guidelines for how the funding can be used. The changes at Walmart have come after pressure from conservative activist Robby Starbuck, who advocated for ending “wokeness” in corporate America and threatened a consumer boycott. Walmart had discussions with Starbuck before making these decisions, indicating a willingness to listen to feedback from various stakeholders.
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