Conservatives across the United States are urging both liberals and conservatives to boycott Chick-fil-A due to the company’s recent commitment to “embed diversity in everything we do.” The fast-food chain’s hiring of a Vice President of “diversity, equity, inclusion” has sparked controversy, with critics accusing the company of pushing a “woke agenda.”
Historically, Chick-fil-A has been beloved by conservatives for its Christian principles and stance on issues such as LGBTQ rights and abortion. However, the company’s new direction reflects the evolving landscape of progressive America.
Chick-fil-A hired Erick McReynolds as its Vice President of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) in 2020, but news of his hiring recently resurfaced online, surprising many loyal customers who fear the company has abandoned its conservative values.
The company’s shift towards a “woke agenda” became more apparent in 2021 with the launch of their “Better at Together” mission, aimed at improving conditions for both employees and customers.
“We understand that the path toward Better at Together looks different for every business,” Chick-fil-A’s statement read. “At Chick-fil-A, Inc., our commitment is to approach this work with intention and humility, always believing the best in one another and striving for common ground. We’re early on in our journey, but we’re honored by the opportunity to steward our organization’s greatest asset – our people – and are energized by the road ahead.”
McReynolds has emphasized the importance of DEI for Chick-fil-A’s success, stating, “Chick-fil-A restaurants have long been recognized as a place where people know they will be treated well. Modeling care for others starts in the restaurant, and we are committed to ensuring mutual respect, understanding, and dignity everywhere we do business.”
The company’s website outlines its DEI initiative, which aims to “focus on promoting equal access to opportunities, valuing differences, and creating a culture of belonging.”
Despite these efforts, many conservatives are outraged by what they perceive as Chick-fil-A’s shift towards a “woke” agenda.
One social media user commented, “Something tells me Chick-fil-A is going to be called to repent soon.”
Another wrote, “Hi Chick-fil-A, 100k+ lifetime points since the app was launched. You’ve now lost my family after this ridiculous Marxist DEI statement. Very sad/disappointed, and I know my money doesn’t matter… but I guess it was just a matter of time before you allowed the communists to take over.”
