After criticism from diversity activists, Harley-Davidson drops its DEI policies

On Monday, Harley-Davidson announced that it is discontinuing certain diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives following pressure from critics of such policies on social media.

This decision aligns the iconic motorcycle manufacturer with other companies like John Deere & Co. and Tractor Supply, which recently abandoned similar diversity programs.

On X (earlier Twitter), Harley-Davidson clarified that it has not had a “DEI function” since April 2024. The company also stated that it no longer enforces hiring quotas or “supplier diversity spend goals” intended to diversify its business partnerships.

In addition, Harley-Davidson will take “socially motivated content” out of its employee training materials and stop taking part in Human Rights Campaign (HRC) grading.

In spite of these modifications, the firm emphasised that it still believes that everyone should be able to enjoy riding a Harley-Davidson and that having a diverse workforce and consumer base is beneficial to its business. Robby Starbuck, a conservative commentator, applauded the company’s move and called it a win for people who are against DEI policy. This action demonstrates how businesses are coming under more and more pressure to reevaluate their DEI policies as some conservative activists question their efficacy and equity.