Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta, along with 12 other state attorneys general, has addressed a letter to Walmart CEO Doug McMillan expressing concerns over the company's recent decision to halt its supplier diversity programs, philanthropic efforts, equity trainings, and the internal use of "diversity" and "DEI." This move comes four years after Walmart publicly committed to social justice and equity following the murder of George Floyd in 2020.

The coalition urges Walmart to reaffirm its commitment to nondiscriminatory and ethical business practices. The letter suggests that ending these programs might contravene state and federal nondiscrimination laws. Attorney General Bonta stated, “More than 100,000 Californians are employed at Walmart, and these employees deserve a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment.”

The letter raises concerns about Walmart's decision to phase out supplier diversity programs and end equity training for staff. It questions how these actions will align with non-discrimination requirements and whether any restructuring disproportionately affected protected groups. The attorneys general have invited Walmart to clarify its stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion values while ensuring compliance with state non-discrimination laws.

Attorney General Bonta was joined by his counterparts from Illinois, Connecticut, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont in sending this letter.

A copy of the letter is available for public viewing.