Ford Motor has decided to walk back some of its commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, citing changes in the external and legal environment related to political and social issues. The company will no longer use quotas for minority dealerships or suppliers, and will stop participating in the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index. Other companies, such as Tractor Supply, Harley Davidson, and Lowe’s, have also made similar moves in response to conservative backlash or changing social and political environments. These decisions have disappointed LGBTQ+ advocacy groups like the Human Rights Campaign, who see it as a step back in supporting underrepresented communities. The backlash against diversity initiatives has been fueled by the Supreme Court decision to overturn affirmative action in colleges, with conservative activists urging companies to steer away from DEI practices to avoid potential lawsuits. Anti-DEI activists like Robby Starbuck argue that workplaces should focus on work rather than divisive social issues, and question the appropriateness of companies sponsoring events related to LGBTQ+ issues. Overall, these developments reflect a broader trend of companies facing pressure to reassess their DEI efforts in light of changing societal and political dynamics.
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