Walmart Cuts Diversity Initiatives Amid Criticism

Walmart has announced a rollback of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, citing pressure from conservative activists, particularly Robby Starbuck, who threatened a boycott ahead of Black Friday. The changes include discontinuing its funding for a racial equity center established in response to George Floyd's death, ceasing participation in the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index, and ending the consideration of race and gender in supplier contracts. Walmart also plans to eliminate products marketed to children that are associated with transgender identity and review its support for LGBTQ+ Pride events. This move reflects a broader trend among corporations facing backlash against DEI policies since the Supreme Court's ruling ending affirmative action in college admissions. Starbuck has claimed that this is a significant victory for the conservative movement against what they term 'woke' policies in corporate America. The retail giant's decision is seen as part of a wider shift as other major companies also retract similar initiatives.