(CNN) — McDonald’s is the latest US corporation — and among the largest — to back off some of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices, as a Supreme Court ruling against affirmative action and conservative backlash to those programs continues to lead businesses to reevaluate their diversity pledges.
Changes in McDonald's DEI Practices
The company announced that it is sunsetting its specific diversity goals, including requiring its suppliers to commit to certain DEI targets. McDonald’s is also changing the name of its diversity team to the Global Inclusion Team.
Maintaining a Diverse Workforce
McDonald's emphasized that it remains committed to fostering inclusion in the workplace and across its operations, working with suppliers to discuss diversity and inclusion practices.
A New Era of DEI Practices
While some corporations are reevaluating their DEI initiatives, DEI commitments are evolving rather than disappearing. McDonald's saw growth in leadership, supplier, and franchisee diversity in 2024 due to its previous commitments.
Costco's Stance on DEI
Costco highlighted the benefits of its DEI policies and continued efforts to expand with small and diverse businesses, attracting and retaining diverse employees.
McDonald's Commitment
McDonald’s will maintain franchisee affinity groups, report company demographics annually, and uphold a commitment to pay equity. The company's work is guided by beliefs in community shaping, inclusivity, responsibility, and belonging.
McDonald's, DEI, diversity, equity, inclusion, workplace, diversity initiatives
