Harley-Davidson discards diversity programs following a substantial backlash from conservative opponents to DEI initiatives.
Harley-Davidson announced on Monday that it's scraping its diversity and progressive initiatives within the company. The iconic American brand joins a growing list of major corporations that are retracting their support for DEI policies they had recently endorsed.
Harley-Davidson found itself under fire online from Robby Starbuck, a prominent conservative activist, who has successfully challenged DEI policies at various American companies.
In a statement posted on their platform, Harley-Davidson expressed disappointment over the negative rhetoric spreading on social media for the past few weeks aiming to divide their community.
The company clarified that they have halted their DEI operations since April 2024 and currently do not have such a function. They also stated that they no longer maintain hiring quotas or have supplier diversity spend objectives.
However, the company expressed intent to review its partnerships with external organizations and will establish a central approval system for these relationships. It hinted at potentially dropping some sponsorships, including LGBTQ+ Pride events, as they aim to solely foster the growth of motorcycling as a sport moving forward.
Additionally, Harley-Davidson announced its decision to sever ties with the Human Rights Campaign.
The company reassured its commitment to hearing out all members of their community in the statement.
Starbuck initially raised concerns about the company on social media less than a month ago.
"Time to expose Harley-Davidson," Starbuck wrote on July 23, listing around 20 instances of how the company had gone "too woke." These included Harley-Davidson supporting an LGBTQ entrepreneur bootcamp, donating to United Way, and aiming to diversify its workforce as part of its strategy to expand its base of motorcycle riders.
Right-wing leaders such as Elon Musk amplified Starbuck's social media posts.
Harley-Davidson remains unresponsive to requests for comment as of yet.
This story is still developing and will be updated.
Harley-Davidson's decision to halt its DEI operations and abandon hiring quotas and supplier diversity spend objectives is a significant shift in its business strategy. This shift in focus might potentially impact its partnerships with organizations that promote diversity and inclusion, such as the LGBTQ+ Pride events and the Human Rights Campaign.
