Popular agriculture companies are reversing course on their Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and climate smart initiatives after conservative backlash, legal pressure, and customer outrage.
Last month, Tractor Supply Company released a statement on X saying it would throw out all DEI roles, get rid of carbon emissions goals, and remove any presence/ sponsorship from Pride events.
"We have heard from customers that we have disappointed them. We have taken this feedback to heart. Going forward, we will ensure our activities and giving tie directly to our business." - Tractor Supply Company
Just last week, John Deere released a statement announcing an end to participation in external social/cultural awareness events (parades and festivals); its business resource groups would be refocused on "professional development, networking, mentoring, and talent recruitment"; an in-depth audit on training materials will eliminate any "socially motivated" messages; and the company confirmed that diversity quotas and pronoun identification have never been and will never be company policy.
"To best serve our customers and employees, Deere is always listening to feedback and looking for opportunities to improve. That's why we consistently prioritize internal policies that more closely align our business strategy to meet the needs of our customers." - John Deere
