(TheProudRepublic.com) – Following the bombshell Supreme Court decision to ban affirmative action in college admissions, Lowe’s Home Improvement is joining several other companies in rolling back DEI policies due to conservative backlash.
An internal memo revealed that Lowe’s leadership began “reviewing” its DEI programs after the court’s ruling.
The company will now merge resource groups that were previously set up for different sections of its diverse workforce into one group.
Lowe’s also announced that it will end its sponsorship and participation in events like parades, festivals, or fairs. For example, in 2019, Lowe’s sponsored a Pride parade in Charlotte, N.C.
Additionally, the retailer will stop participating in the Human Rights Campaign’s annual survey that measures workplace inclusion for LGBTQ+ employees.
This is despite Lowe’s earning a perfect score in the organization’s most recent corporate equity index for LGBTQ worker protections.
The memo noted, “We may make additional changes over time.” However, it added, “What will not change, though, is our commitment to our people.”
Furthermore, Lowe’s decision follows similar moves by other retailers, such as Tractor Supply and John Deere, which have also scaled back their DEI initiatives.
Harley-Davidson has also reduced its DEI policies, although it has stated that it has not operated a DEI function since April 2024.
In contrast, anti-DEI activists have been calling for consumer boycotts of companies that promote these policies.
Conservative commentator Robby Starbuck claimed credit for the changes at Lowe’s.
He posted on X that he had contacted a Lowe’s executive last week with plans to “expose” the company’s hiring policies, LGBTQ+ employee resource groups, and funding for Pride events.
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