CHICAGO -- Four years after launching a push for more diversity in its ranks, McDonald's is ending some of its diversity practices, citing a U.S. Supreme Court decision that outlawed affirmative action in college admissions.
Impact of Legal Ruling
McDonald's is the latest big company to shift its tactics in the wake of the 2023 ruling and a conservative backlash against diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Walmart, John Deere, Harley-Davidson, and others rolled back their DEI initiatives last year.
Changes in McDonald's Policies
McDonald's said Monday it will retire specific goals for achieving diversity at senior leadership levels. It also intends to end a program that encourages its suppliers to develop diversity training and to increase the number of minority group members represented within their own leadership ranks.
McDonald's said it will also pause "external surveys." The burger giant didn't elaborate, but several other companies, including Lowe's and Ford Motor Co., suspended their participation in an annual survey by the Human Rights Campaign that measures workplace inclusion for LGBTQ+ employees.
Political Landscape Influence
A shifting political landscape may have played a role in McDonald's decision. President-elect Donald Trump and his administration have been vocal opponents of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs, influencing other corporations as well.
Company Commitment
In an open letter to employees and franchisees, McDonald's senior leadership team reiterated its commitment to inclusion and the belief that a diverse workforce is a competitive advantage. The company highlighted its achievements in gender pay equity and supplier spending diversity.
McDonald's said it would continue to support efforts that ensure a diverse base of employees, suppliers, and franchisees, but its diversity team will now be referred to as the Global Inclusion Team. The company stated it would also continue to report its demographic information.
McDonald's, diversity, equity, inclusion, legal ruling, workplace diversity
