Lowe’s Scales Back Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Policies Following Supreme Court Ruling

Lowe’s, the home improvement chain, has announced significant changes to its diversity, equity, and inclusion policies, aligning with a trend seen in several other companies following the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling on affirmative action in college admissions. In an internal memo shared with The Associated Press, Lowe’s revealed that it has combined its resource groups into one umbrella organization and will no longer participate in the Human Rights Campaign’s workplace inclusion survey for LGBTQ+ employees.

The decision to scale back on diversity initiatives was made to ensure that Lowe’s policies are “lawful” and inclusive of everyone, according to the memo. The company’s leadership team emphasized their commitment to their employees while hinting at potential future changes.

Conservative political commentator Robby Starbuck claimed credit for influencing Lowe’s decision through online outreach, but the company pushed back on this assertion, stating that the changes were already in process before Starbuck’s involvement. Lowe’s CEO Marvin Ellison, who has been vocal about racism and diversity, has diversified the company’s leadership since taking the helm in 2018.

The move by Lowe’s to scale back on diversity initiatives comes amidst a broader backlash against DEI policies in various industries. Companies like Tractor Supply, John Deere, Harley-Davidson, and Jack Daniels have also faced pressure to alter their diversity measures. Critics argue that by giving in to conservative pressure, companies are sacrificing principles of racial justice and LGBTQ+ inclusion.

The Human Rights Campaign criticized Lowe’s and other companies for their retreat from DEI efforts, warning of negative long-term consequences on their bottom line. The debate over diversity and inclusion in the workplace is likely to intensify, with potential changes depending on the outcome of the upcoming U.S. election.