Companies Rolling Back or Doubling Down on DEI
In recent months, news coverage has focused on a growing list of well-known brands that are rolling back or eliminating their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion policies. Increasing political pressure, “anti-woke” activism, and the threat of potential litigation seem to be the main factors driving this shift. Still, a 2024 national survey found that “CEOs across the political spectrum believe diversity initiatives are important for positive business outcomes,” as noted by Harvard Business Review.
Despite current challenges, such as the recently announced cuts to Federal DEI positions, offices, and hiring initiatives, some major companies are doubling down, declaring their unwavering support for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in both the workplace and supply chain. For example, a conservative think tank is pressuring companies to reject what it calls the “woke takeover of American corporate life,” according to Forbes. But major brands, including Apple and Costco, are pushing back. The Board of Directors at both companies urged their shareholders to reject such anti-DEI proposals, which will be voted on soon.
Doubling Down
In a message sent to our members, businesses, and partners on January 22nd, Brian K. Oglesby, President/CEO of the EMSDC and WTCPittsburgh stated, “In light of current events, EMSDC affirms our continuing commitment to both our MBEs and Corporate Members to provide the services and connections designed to create opportunities through a strong, dynamic, and ROI-driven global supply chain. We are and will remain here to serve.”
Thank you to our corporate members for staying the course with us!
Voting with Your Wallet
Pew Research Center reports that opinions on DEI initiatives “vary considerably along political lines.” If you want to make informed decisions about where you spend your money, the Goods Unite Us app allows you to search for a brand and see the distribution of political contributions made by senior employees and/or the company as a whole, to help align your purchases with your values. You can also help transform the supply chain and support minority-owned businesses in Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey, and Delaware when you donate to the EMSDC.
The mission of the EMSDC is to stimulate and support economic development with minority-owned businesses (Asian, Black, Hispanic, and Native American) throughout Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey, and Delaware. As a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization and regional affiliate of the NMSDC, we certify and connect MBEs with member corporations to create a more dynamic supply chain. We invite you to explore our website at emsdc.org to learn more.