Ford renews the DEI: Ford Motor Co announced Wednesday that it will revamp its diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) program, including ending its participation in an LGBTQ rights advocacy group’s rating system. The move aligns Ford with several other U.S. companies that have recently adjusted their DEI programs in response to pressure from conservative groups. In an internal memo, Ford Chief Executive Jim Farley highlighted the company’s awareness of the diverse beliefs of its employees and customers. “We are aware that our employees and customers have a wide range of beliefs, and the external and legal environment related to political and social issues continues to evolve,” Ford Chief Executive Jim Farley said in a memo to employees.
Leading companies adjust their DEI strategies
Several major US companies, including JPMorgan Chase and Harley Davidson, have recently shifted their DEI strategies. This week, home improvement giant Lowe’s also joined the trend. US companies intensified their focus on diversity initiatives following the 2020 protests against racial and gender disparities, sparked by the police killings of George Floyd and other Black Americans.
However, some companies have recently withdrawn these programs, in response to pressure from conservative legal groups. These groups argue that DEI programs may constitute unlawful discrimination and violate directors’ duties to investors. Opposition to diversity policies has gained traction, particularly following the June 2023 ruling by the U.S. Supreme Court striking down affirmative action in college admissions.
While the ruling does not directly affect employers, it has emboldened those who oppose DEI initiatives. Advocates for greater diversity warn that this opposition threatens the progress of underrepresented groups in corporate leadership positions. Former US President Donald Trump, who is currently running for re-election, has been an outspoken critic of DEI initiatives.
Ford shifts its focus inward
In his memo, Farley said Ford would prioritize the well-being of employees and customers over public commentary on polarizing social issues.
She also mentioned that the company’s employee resource groups have shifted their focus over the past year toward networking, mentoring, professional development and community service. Farley revealed that Ford had decided earlier this year to stop participating in certain external cultural surveys, including those conducted by LGBTQ advocacy group Human Rights Campaign and various lists of best places to work. “This isn’t everything we want, but it’s a great start. We’re now forcing multi-billion dollar organizations to change their policies,” Starbuck said on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter).(With contributions from Reuters)
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