Harley Davidson Faces Pressure to Reconsider DEI Initiatives

Tuesday, 20 August 2024, 10:20

Harley Davidson is leading a trend where companies back down from DEI initiatives amid criticism from conservative activists. This shift reflects a significant push against established diversity practices within large corporations. Conservative activist Robby Starbuck has been pivotal in challenging these programs, gaining traction among like-minded consumers. In recent months, major companies have altered their approach to diversity policies, signaling a broader change in corporate America.
Business Insider
Harley Davidson Faces Pressure to Reconsider DEI Initiatives

Harley Davidson Takes Center Stage in DEI Backlash

Motorcycle maker Harley Davidson is the latest company to back down from diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, following pressure from activist Robby Starbuck, Bloomberg reported on Tuesday. Leveraging his social media influence, Starbuck, a prominent conservative activist, has criticized companies for their DEI practices.

Impact on Corporate Practices

  • Starbuck argues that these initiatives do not align with the values of companies' largely conservative consumer bases.
  • He plans to target an undisclosed company with a similar customer demographic in his next social media campaign.

This move away from DEI policies is part of an ongoing wave of backlash against diversity programs at American companies. Tech companies such as Microsoft, Meta, and Zoom recently cut DEI programs this year, Business Insider reported in July, and law firms, including Winston & Strawn, faced lawsuits for affirmative action.

Public Support for DEI Initiatives

While activists like Starbuck are loudly criticizing companies and other groups, 61% of Americans support DEI practices, according to a Washington Post-Ipsos poll in April. Starbuck's agenda appears to target the elimination of these initiatives altogether, indicating a significant shift in how businesses approach diversity and inclusion.


This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.


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