Disney defies pressure, reaffirms commitment to LGBT+ inclusion
A conservative organization with ties to the MAGA movement made a controversial offer to Disney, urging the company to cease its support for LGBT+ equality and efforts to create an inclusive workforce. The studio firmly declined, instead reaffirming its support for the queer community.
At the most recent Disney shareholders' general meeting, a vote was held on a proposal for the company to retreat from activities promoting diversity and equality for LGBT+ individuals. The initiative, put forth by the conservative organization NCPPR, was overwhelmingly rejected, garnering support from only 1 percent of voters.
Disney stood by the LGBT+ community
NCPPR argued that Disney's participation in the annual diversity and inclusivity report conducted by the Human Rights Campaign promotes "partisan, divisive and increasingly radical" values. They claimed that this inclusive operational model might deter some investors and customers, potentially negatively impacting the company's financial performance.
However, Disney's board recommended that shareholders vote against the proposal, emphasizing that participation in DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) programs is a crucial part of the company's strategy and contributes to building a strong organizational culture.
The studio will not abandon inclusivity
For years, Disney has been an advocate for equality and diversity. Since 2007, the company has consistently received top ratings in the HRC ranking, demonstrating its commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ employees. In 2022, the company openly opposed the controversial "Don’t Say Gay" bill in Florida, leading to tensions with Governor Ron DeSantis and the loss of certain tax and administrative privileges.
Despite the fact that some American corporations, such as Walmart and Target, have scaled back their DEI programs due to mounting political pressure, Disney steadfastly maintains its stance. The company underscores that inclusivity not only fosters innovation but also positively impacts financial results.
The voting results are clear
The mere 1 percent support for the NCPPR proposal indicates that Disney investors have no intention of abandoning the diversity and inclusion policy. Eric Bloem, vice president of corporate citizenship at the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, summarized the vote, stating: "Despite the growing politicization of DEI and workplace inclusion, leading global businesses remain committed to the belief that a welcoming, inclusive environment drives innovation, boosts productivity, and strengthens the bottom line."
