McDonald’s has scaled back several diversity-related initiatives in the United States, joining a growing list of major American companies that have recently revised their diversity and inclusion policies. The fast-food giant’s decision follows similar moves by other large corporations such as supermarket chain Walmart, motorcycle manufacturer Harley-Davidson, and spirits producer Brown-Forman, the maker of Jack Daniel’s whiskey.
As part of its shift, McDonald’s announced that it will no longer set specific diversity goals. Additionally, the company will no longer require its suppliers to meet diversity, inclusion, and equality targets. McDonald’s is also withdrawing from external research on these topics.
However, the company emphasized that it remains committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within its workforce. McDonald’s has launched an internal campaign aimed at fostering a work environment where all employees treat each other with respect and fairness.
This move comes amid broader debates over corporate diversity policies in the U.S., with some companies revisiting or rethinking their commitments to diversity in the face of shifting political and social dynamics.