Walmart Ending Diversity Initiatives, Removing LGBTQ Merchandise and Wind-down of Nonprofit
Walmart, the largest private employer in the United States, has confirmed that it is ending some of its diversity initiatives and removing certain LGBTQ-related merchandise from its website. The retailer will also be winding down the Center for Racial Equity, a nonprofit established by the company in 2020 to combat systemic racism.
The decision is reportedly due to pressure from conservative activists, including Robby Starbuck, who has been vocal about ending what he refers to as “wokeness in corporate America.” As part of the changes, Walmart will no longer allow third-party sellers to offer some LGBTQ-themed items, such as items marketed to transgender youth, on its website. The company is also ending its sharing of data with the Human Rights Campaign and other organizations.
The changes are the latest development in a growing trend among major corporations that are reportedly re-evaluating their diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in the face of backlash from conservative groups and activists. Earlier this year, companies such as Tractor Supply, Lowe’s, and Ford reportedly rolled back or discontinued certain diversity initiatives or marketing campaigns.
Despite these changes, Walmart still plans to continue supporting diversity-related causes and organizations, but with increased oversight and guidelines.
