Walmart Scales Back DEI Policies, Ends HRC Index

Walmart is scaling back its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies amidst pressure from conservative activists, joining other major corporations like Ford and John Deere in similar moves. The retailer confirmed it will no longer consider race and gender in supplier contracts and will cease using terms like 'DEI' and 'Latinx' in official communications. Walmart plans to monitor third-party marketplace items for sexual and transgender products aimed at minors, such as chest binders, and will review grants to Pride events to ensure they do not support sexualized content targeting children. The company will not renew its Center for Racial Equity, fulfilling its initial five-year commitment, and will stop participating in the Human Rights Campaign Corporate Equality Index. These changes were partly influenced by anti-DEI activist Robby Starbuck, who had discussions with Walmart executives about 'wokeness.' Despite these rollbacks, Walmart asserts that its decisions are aimed at fostering a sense of belonging for all associates and customers.