Democrats Urge Corporations To Maintain DEI Programs Amid Backlash

A group of 49 Democratic lawmakers, led by Rep. Robert Garcia (D-CA), is calling on major U.S. companies to keep their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, despite growing resistance from consumers and shareholders. The lawmakers sent a letter to executives of Fortune 1000 companies, urging them to stick with DEI programs that have faced criticism for their effectiveness and unintended consequences.

Several large corporations, including Ford, Harley-Davidson, John Deere, Lowe’s and Molson Coors, have recently announced scaling back on DEI initiatives. Companies cite various reasons for the shift, including consumer boycotts, declining workplace productivity and shareholder pressure. DEI programs, which are designed to foster inclusivity, have come under fire for sometimes leading to discrimination based on race, gender, or sexual orientation.

In the letter, the lawmakers wrote, “Inclusion is a core American value, and a great business practice,” emphasizing that DEI programs do not compromise business performance or quality. However, public opinion is increasingly turning against DEI initiatives, particularly in light of the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling that struck down race-based admissions practices, arguing they violated the Constitution’s equal protection clause.

The backlash against DEI policies is also evident in upcoming legal challenges. In Ohio, Marlean Ames is suing the state’s Department of Youth Services over reverse discrimination, a case that is set to be heard by the U.S. Supreme Court. The outcome of this case, expected in 2024, could set a new precedent for how discrimination cases involving majority demographics are handled.

As Democrats push for continued DEI efforts, the broader debate over the role of such programs in American business and society is expected to intensify, especially as legal and public sentiment continues to shift.