Tractor Supply, a rural retailer based in Tennessee, has decided to end its diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, as well as its climate goals, following online backlash from conservative groups. The company announced that it would eliminate all DEI roles, stop sponsoring nonbusiness activities like Pride festivals and voting campaigns, and withdraw from carbon emission goals.
This decision represents a significant departure from Tractor Supply’s previous stance on diversity and inclusion. The move comes amidst a backdrop of growing conservative backlash against companies’ diversity initiatives, with legal challenges and online campaigns calling for boycotts becoming more common.
While some have criticized Tractor Supply for caving in to hate and abandoning important principles, others have celebrated the decision. The company stated that it had heard from customers who were disappointed and took their feedback to heart. It remains to be seen how this move will impact Tractor Supply’s reputation and customer base in the future.
The Human Rights Campaign, the largest LGBTQ+ rights advocacy group in the U.S., expressed disappointment with Tractor Supply’s decision, stating that it is turning its back on LGBTQ+ individuals in rural communities. The organization had worked with Tractor Supply to create inclusive policies and practices for years and believes that giving in to far-right extremists will ultimately harm the very people these businesses rely on.
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