Lowe’s adjusts its diversity, equity, and inclusion policies following the Supreme Court’s affirmative action ruling and conservative pressure, drawing mixed reactions.
Bollywood Fever: Lowe’s, the home improvement chain, is scaling back its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, joining several other companies that have altered their programs in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling against affirmative action in college admissions or after facing backlash from conservative circles.
In an internal memo shared with The Associated Press, Lowe’s executive leadership revealed that the retailer began “reviewing” its DEI programs following the court’s July 2023 decision. Recently, the company decided to consolidate its resource groups—previously dedicated to diverse segments of its workforce—into one umbrella organization.
Additionally, Lowe’s announced it would no longer participate in the annual Human Rights Campaign (HRC) survey that measures workplace inclusion for LGBTQ+ employees. The company also plans to stop sponsoring and participating in events, such as festivals and parades, that fall outside its core business areas. The changes, according to the memo, were made to ensure that Lowe’s policies remain “lawful” and aligned with its commitment to “include everyone.”
“We may make additional changes over time,” the company’s leadership stated. “What will not change, though, is our commitment to our people.”
Conservative political commentator Robby Starbuck, known for targeting companies like Tractor Supply and John Deere over similar issues, claimed credit for Lowe’s decision. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Starbuck said he had approached a Lowe’s executive online last week, detailing his plans to “expose” the company over its hiring policies and support for LGBTQ+ initiatives. However, Lowe’s spokesperson Steve Salazar disputed Starbuck’s claim, noting that the company had already begun implementing changes internally before Starbuck’s outreach.
The internal memo did not specify when exactly these changes were put into effect but mentioned they were discussed at an August 21 meeting.
In recent days, Lowe’s has also had to address a false claim circulating on social media, in which a digitally altered image purportedly quoted Lowe’s CEO Marvin Ellison as telling conservatives to shop at rival Home Depot if they disagreed with the company’s values. “Lowe’s CEO did not make this comment,” the company clarified on X, reassuring that “Everyone is welcome at Lowe’s.”
Since taking the helm in 2018, Ellison, who is Black and grew up in segregated rural Tennessee, has diversified the company’s leadership and been outspoken about racism, particularly in the wake of George Floyd’s murder in 2020. Despite the scaling back of DEI initiatives, Ellison’s efforts to diversify the company have been notable.
The backlash against DEI policies isn’t limited to Lowe’s. Companies across various industries have faced similar pressures, with some responding by adjusting or retracting their diversity measures. For example, Tractor Supply and John Deere ended some diversity initiatives earlier this summer following online pressure campaigns led by figures like Starbuck. Harley-Davidson recently announced that it had not “operated a DEI function since April 2024.”
While these changes have been welcomed by some conservative activists, DEI advocates warn that conceding to such pressure undermines efforts to create inclusive workplaces. Jen Stark, co-director of the Center for Business and Social Justice at BSR, emphasized that DEI programs are not only about fairness but also make good business sense. However, she cautioned that businesses need to ensure their DEI programs are on “firm ground” following the Supreme Court’s ruling and to avoid overcorrecting in the face of backlash, which can cause more harm.
“This isn’t just a step backward for workplaces,” Stark said. “It’s really a retreat from how we normalize practices that remove barriers and impediments for everyone.”
The Human Rights Campaign, which Lowe’s has decided not to partner with under its new policy, criticized the move. Orlando Gonzales, HRC’s senior vice president of programs, research, and training, called the changes “shortsighted decisions” that could lead to “negative long-term consequences.” He also criticized Starbuck, arguing that companies should not be swayed by individuals with “zero business experience.”
As companies navigate these challenging times, the outcome of the U.S. election could significantly impact the direction of DEI policies. A second term for former President Donald Trump might increase pressure against DEI initiatives, while a presidency under his challenger Kamala Harris could have the opposite effect.
Companies are preparing for potential changes, particularly in terms of federal contracts, which have historically been a powerful tool for promoting workplace equity. Whether we see a resurgence of DEI efforts or further retrenchment will likely depend on the evolving political landscape.
Also Read Other Articles, Cameroonian Activist Found in Military Custody with Signs of Torture, Says Human Rights Watch
Dangerous TikTok Trend “Ridgy Popping” Puts Sydney Teens at Risk on Train Lines
NASA’s Perseverance Rover Begins Steep Ascent to Unlock Mars’ Ancient Secrets