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illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on CNN or enjoy below:
🗞️ Driving the news: McDonald’s announced it is scaling back specific diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices, citing a recent Supreme Court ruling against affirmative action and broader corporate reevaluations of DEI initiatives
• This includes sunsetting diversity targets for suppliers and ending participation in external corporate diversity surveys
• The company is renaming its diversity team to the "Global Inclusion Team" but reaffirms its commitment to workplace inclusion
🔭 The context: McDonald’s joins several major corporations, like Walmart and Ford, in reshaping DEI strategies amidst legal challenges and political backlash
• Despite these changes, McDonald’s highlights past successes, such as increased leadership diversity and supplier spending goals
• Many companies argue DEI isn't disappearing but evolving to better align with shifting social and economic landscapes
🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The rollback of DEI practices could slow progress in fostering workplace equity and supplier diversity, crucial for systemic change
• Such shifts may impact businesses' roles in promoting broader social justice goals, particularly in industries with significant environmental and social responsibilities
⏭️ What's next: McDonald’s plans to prioritize inclusivity under a new framework focusing on its community ties, operational responsibility, and fostering belonging
• The company will continue reporting demographic data and pursuing pay equity while evaluating the impact of evolving DEI strategies
💬 One quote: “McDonald’s position and our commitment to inclusion is steadfast,” the company stated, emphasizing its foundational focus on people
📈 One stat: In 2024, 30% of McDonald’s U.S. leaders were from underrepresented groups, and 25% of its supply-chain spending went to diverse-owned suppliers
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