Ford is the latest company to abandon DEI policies

Ford is revising its approach to workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The company issued a memo to employees stating that it will no longer use quotas for minority-owned dealerships or suppliers and emphasized that it does not implement hiring quotas.

The move underscores a growing anti-DEI movement in corporate America as backlash from conservative influencers grows.

Ford has joined a growing number of companies, such as John Deere, Jack Daniel’s, Harley-Davidson, Lowe’s, and Tractor Supply, that have recently cut back on their DEI policies.

Ford said it reviewed its DEI policies and has decided to cut them. The automaker will not participate in the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index, which evaluates companies’ treatment of LGBTQ+ individuals.

CEO Jim Farley stated that the company is mindful of the diverse beliefs of its employees and customers and noted that political and social issues are evolving.

Behind the decision
One of the main reasons several corporations are now denouncing DEI initiatives is the fear of backlash from conservative investors and activists, like social media influencer Robby Starbuck. They also want to appeal more to rural or conservative customers.

Starbuck has been targeting companies with DEI initiatives and carbon emission programs which he claims are “woke” policies.

Overall, Ford’s move has sparked criticism from the Human Rights Campaign, which expressed disappointment and accused the auto giant of abandoning its responsibilities to its employees, consumers, and shareholders.

The shift reflects a broader trend of companies reevaluating DEI efforts amid growing political and social pressures, particularly as the 2024 election approaches.