Let’s talk about the great DEI debate. No, it’s not a hot new Netflix drama – it’s the ongoing saga of brands deciding whether they should actually care about Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, or just toss out some vague statements in a press release and move on with their day. Some companies are leaning toward the latter, and, well, it’s not looking great for their reputations.
In fact, companies like Harley-Davidson, Deere, and Tractor Supply have all started cutting their DEI budgets. According to Business Insider, the reasoning behind it is “activist backlash.” But hey, if you’re cutting DEI funding because a few X users don’t like it, you’re really doing the whole “brand loyalty” thing wrong. Let’s break down why these DEI cuts are a branding disaster waiting to happen.
If you’re cutting DEI because it’s “too political” or because “the activists just want too much,” here’s a little nugget for you: it’s about PEOPLE. Not policies. DEI is about creating a workplace and culture where individuals from all backgrounds feel valued, heard, and included. It’s not about appeasing a certain crowd or doing a “check-the-box” exercise. But apparently, some brands missed that memo. DEI is literally the way we ensure that people, no matter their race, gender, or identity, can thrive in your company. And here’s the kicker: if you don’t understand this by now, you're missing the point entirely – and possibly alienating half your potential customers.
Imagine you’re a brand, and your customers are complaining that their orders aren’t showing up on time. Your response? Cut customer service. Genius, right? It’s essentially what some brands are doing when they pull the plug on DEI. They’re essentially saying, “Oh, we don’t want to upset anyone, so let’s just stop talking about it.” Sure, let’s make sure you’re pleasing the loudest voices while alienating everyone else. This strategy works for maybe a day, but in the long run, it’s like setting fire to your brand’s reputation. Good luck getting those customers back.
Here's a radical idea: embrace DEI. Don’t just add it to your policy book and hope for the best. Commit to it. Make it a core part of your brand’s DNA. There’s literally no downside here unless, of course, you don’t want to appeal to diverse audiences or modern consumers. Just remember: DEI is about creating meaningful, lasting change.
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