Walmart is a multinational corporation that has become a staple for shoppers around the world. Its incredibly affordable prices put it on the map as one of the best budget stores for families and those looking for durable and stylish home goods. Like many other companies, Walmart has been known to release Black History Month products; this corporate affiliation with DEI initiatives in the past has put them in the spotlight as the Trump administration’s ban takes effect. As of late, their consistently low prices have not been at the forefront of consumer’s minds. Instead, shoppers are asking about Walmart’s DEI policy.

Does Walmart Support DEI?

According to Forbes, Walmart is not very committed to DEI. Although it has been a cheerleader for equality on a corporate level, the company recently made the decision to switch up. In late November 2024 the corporation announced that it will abandon diversity commitments. This pullback has clearly followed the mounting pressure from Trump’s anti-DEI campaigns. The company claims that the decision will not impact their policy in a negative way. Yet, already there have been other disappointing decisions made by Walmart, such as the company winding down on a racial equity center which began after police officers murdered George Floyd in 2020. They founded the nonprofit with a five year financial commitment and now are choosing not to renew their commitment.

This move will undoubtedly have a domino effect on other companies’ decisions around DEI since Walmart is the world’s largest retailer. It is one of the largest companies to follow POTUS’ new mandates and many other organizations may follow their lead. Walmart’s decision will greatly impact prior commitments to human right’s equity campaigns since it is completely divesting from DEI commitments. The retailer will phase out the term “diversity, equity and inclusion” in any corporate communications. As Walmart spokesperson Michael Lindsay clarified, the company will now use the terminology “belonging” in place of DEI. He states, “We still support and listen to our social resource groups that provide feedback and provide input on policy on merchandise. We still want to create a sense of belonging for associates.”

What Does Walmart’s Stance Mean for Consumers?

While the company’s de-prioritization of DEI initiatives may not mean much to some shoppers, that will not be the case for everyone. People who habitually shop at Walmart might let these circumstances influence their outlook on the chain. If that is the case, there will surely be other stores that remain committed to their DEI campaigns and initiatives. Consumers can make an impact and send a strong message by being selective about where they shop. Shopping with Black-owned or allied companies who have ethics better aligned with your own may be well worth the transition. Time will only tell what the huge retailer will do next, but consumers always have options.