Walmart Rolls Back Diversity Initiatives Created After George Floyd’s Death
Walmart Rolls Back Diversity Initiatives Created After George Floyd’s Death
Walmart, the world’s largest retailer, confirmed Monday it is scaling back its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies.
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The changes include ending a five-year commitment to a racial equity center established in 2020 after George Floyd’s death. Walmart is also pulling out of a prominent LGBTQ+ rights index and will no longer prioritize suppliers based on race or gender.
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The move follows growing pressure on corporate America. The U.S. Supreme Court’s June 2023 decision ending affirmative action in college admissions has emboldened conservative groups. These groups have targeted corporate DEI initiatives, arguing they resemble discriminatory practices.
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Conservative commentator Robby Starbuck has amplified these efforts. He has publicly criticized companies with DEI policies on X (formerly Twitter). Several firms, including Ford, Harley-Davidson, Lowe’s, and Tractor Supply, have scaled back their initiatives. Walmart, which employs 1.6 million U.S. workers, is the largest company to take this step so far.
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“This is the biggest win yet for our movement to end wokeness in corporate America,” Starbuck wrote on X. He claimed that conversations with Walmart influenced the decision. *Will you continue to shop at Walmart?*