Walmart is making changes to its diversity initiatives, including removing some LGBTQ-related merchandise from its website and winding down a nonprofit that funded programs for minorities. This move comes as the company joins other businesses in stepping back from diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, potentially due to pressure from conservative activists and changes in affirmative action programs. Retailers like Tractor Supply, Lowe’s, Ford, Molson Coors, and others have also modified their equity and inclusion policies in recent months.
Walmart stated that it is willing to change alongside its associates and customers and wants to foster a sense of belonging for all. The retailer will no longer allow third-party sellers to offer certain LGBTQ-themed items on its website, such as those marketed to transgender youth. It has also stopped sharing data with organizations like the Human Rights Campaign that track LGBTQ policies.
The company has phased out supplier diversity programs and shifted away from using the term “diversity, equity, and inclusion” in its documents and employee titles. They have also changed the role of their former chief diversity officer to a chief belonging officer. Walmart will still provide grants, disaster relief, and funding for events like Pride parades, but with more specific guidelines on how the funds can be used.
Pressure from conservative activist Robby Starbuck led to some of these changes, including Walmart’s decision to make adjustments to its diversity efforts. While Walmart had conversations with Starbuck and was already making some changes before, the activist touted these modifications as a significant win in combating corporate “wokeness.”
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