Several major corporations, once hailed for their commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), are now facing backlash from LGBTQ advocacy groups after backing away from such policies. Companies like Molson Coors, Lowe’s, John Deere, and Harley-Davidson have seen their ratings on the Human Rights Campaign’s (HRC) Corporate Equality Index (CEI) take a hit due to this retreat, largely in response to far-right social media pressure.
Kelley Robinson, president of the HRC Foundation, highlighted the disturbing trend of corporations succumbing to external anti-LGBTQ forces, stating that while a few companies are making “poor, short-sighted decisions,” it remains vital to hold them accountable. Many of these corporations have been accused of caving to campaigns led by far-right figures who oppose inclusive policies in the workplace.
Despite this, Robinson is optimistic about the broader landscape. She emphasizes that more companies than ever are choosing to invest in LGBTQ inclusion, with an increasing number of corporations participating in the CEI and enhancing benefits for LGBTQ workers, including transgender employees. The majority of companies, Robinson notes, understand that inclusive policies are not just moral imperatives but also beneficial for their business, with both employees and consumers demanding more inclusive workplaces.
The shift away from DEI by these notable corporations raises concerns about the future safety and inclusivity for LGBTQ employees. However, the growing number of businesses continuing to prioritize equality indicates that corporate America as a whole may still be on the right track, even as a few deviate from it.
