LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — After the death of George Floyd, companies across the country publicly spoke out about the implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Recently, those same companies, such as Lowes and Ford, reported plans to minimize the DEI policies they once promoted— many people have been left wondering why.
It's a decision that sparked a debate among political leaders who have now been wondering whether or not the changes are a result of the United State's Supreme Court ruling on Affirmative Action at higher education institutions.
"That's where the pressure is coming from," said Clarissa Pace, the NAACP Drew County Branch President. "It's actually coming from the decision that they're going to make a decision for all people, without questioning all people, and without including all people."
The NAACP, along with 18 other organizations, created a three-page call-to-action statement in response to the recent news.
It states that "DEI programs, policies, and practices make business sense and they're broadly popular among the public, consumers, and employees."
Through these efforts, they also state that the company's disinvestment from DEI efforts supposedly weakens businesses and the American economy.
That's why Pace says Arkansas's NAACP has been working to educate and raise awareness of the impact DEI can have before companies in the state begin making similar changes.
"That's our job to make sure that everybody is treated equally and everybody is treated fair. And if you have a talent, as I said, then an ambition or goals, you should be allowed. to work those goals," Pace said.
As of now, no companies in Arkansas have reported doing away with DEI initiatives, and Pace said the NAACP has been actively working to get ahead of the issue.
To view the complete call-to-action statement, please click here.