Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell, along with a coalition of 13 attorneys general, has expressed concerns over Walmart's recent decision to move away from its commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The coalition sent a letter to Walmart President and CEO Doug McMillon urging the company to reconsider phasing out supplier diversity programs, closing the Center for Racial Equality, ending equity training for staff, and removing DEI references from company documents and titles.
McMillon had previously described social justice and equity as "essential" to Walmart's core business when announcing the creation of the Center for Racial Equality in 2020. AG Campbell stated that diverse workforces and inclusive environments benefit both companies and consumers. She emphasized her support for maintaining DEI initiatives that can increase profits, prevent workplace discrimination, and improve consumer experiences.
The letter argues that DEI programs help companies comply with civil rights laws at both state and federal levels. It also addresses opposition attempts to end these initiatives through lawsuits or threats of litigation. The coalition clarifies that eliminating DEI efforts is not legally required.
The attorneys general highlight research showing that diverse leadership correlates with higher financial returns. Consumer surveys indicate strong support for businesses reflecting America's diversity in their corporate culture.
This initiative follows AG Campbell's previous efforts defending DEI practices. In 2023, she opposed actions against Fortune 100 companies engaging in such practices and issued guidance promoting respect for diversity in education.
Joining AG Campbell were attorneys general from California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois (led by Kwame Raoul), Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont.