Disney shareholders reaffirm commitment to LGBT+ inclusivity
A conservative organization aligned with the MAGA ideology made a controversial proposal to Disney. They requested the company cease supporting LGBT+ equality and fostering an inclusive workforce. The studio firmly refused, thereby affirming its support for the queer community.
At the recent Disney shareholders' general meeting, a vote was held on the proposal for the company to withdraw from activities promoting diversity and equality for LGBT+ individuals. The initiative, proposed by the conservative organization NCPPR, was overwhelmingly rejected, receiving support from just 1 percent of voters.
Disney stood by the LGBT+ community
NCPPR argued that Disney's participation in the annual report on diversity and inclusivity, conducted by the Human Rights Campaign, promotes "partisan, divisive and increasingly radical" values. They claimed that the inclusive model of operation might deter some investors and customers, thus negatively affecting the company's financial performance.
However, Disney's board advised shareholders to vote against the proposal. They emphasized that participating 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 dedicated to promoting equality and diversity. Since 2007, the company has consistently received top ratings in the HRC ranking, confirming its policy of 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.
Even though some American corporations, like Walmart and Target, have limited their DEI programs due to increasing political pressure, Disney remains steadfast in its position. The company highlights 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 are committed to maintaining the diversity and integration policy. Eric Bloem, vice president of corporate citizenship at the Human Rights Campaign Foundation, summarized the vote by saying: "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."
