Deere & Co. shifts away from diversity policies in response to conservative criticism

Farm machinery giant Deere & Co. is making headlines as it shifts away from some diversity policies in response to criticism from conservative customers. This move comes on the heels of Tractor Supply facing backlash for a similar decision, sparking outrage and debate.

Deere & Co., known for its iconic John Deere tractors and agricultural equipment, announced on Tuesday that it will no longer participate in “social or cultural awareness” events and will review training materials to ensure they do not contain socially motivated messages. The company will now focus its business resource groups on professional development, mentoring, and talent recruitment rather than race or sexual identity.

This decision reflects the growing pressure faced by companies to scale back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives due to criticism from both external sources and U.S. courts. Major companies like Starbucks, Meta, and Pfizer have also faced challenges to their diversity policies.

The move by Deere & Co. is part of a larger trend of corporate stances on social issues conflicting with customer opinions. Just last year, Bud Light faced a boycott over a partnership with a transgender influencer, and Target received backlash over Pride Month merchandise. Deere’s decision has already drawn criticism from some groups, including the National Black Farmers Association, which has called for a boycott of the company.

Conservative podcast host Robby Starbuck played a significant role in pressuring both Deere & Co. and Tractor Supply to change their diversity policies. He continues to advocate for the elimination of DEI initiatives entirely, sparking further debate on the topic.

While Deere & Co. maintains that it will continue to track and advance diversity within the organization, the decision to scale back DEI efforts has raised concerns among advocates. The Human Rights Campaign expressed disappointment in Deere’s moves, attributing them to pressure from far-right extremists.

As companies navigate the complex landscape of DEI initiatives, the debate over the impact of these programs on business success and societal values continues. With lawsuits challenging DEI policies and state legislatures considering anti-DEI bills, the future of diversity and inclusion efforts remains uncertain.