Corporate Choices Amid Polarization

American businesses are at a crossroads. With rising polarization and social turbulence, they face a decision: align with ideological extremes that fracture trust or embrace the foundational principles that foster unity and success—things like merit, fairness, and shareholder value.

A new campaign is urging 1,000 CEOs to reject corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Instead, it suggests they focus on actual stakeholders—this includes shareholders, employees, customers, and the broader community—not just activist agendas.

This initiative marks a departure from the Business Roundtable’s 2019 letter that encouraged “stakeholder capitalism,” which allowed companies to pursue political objectives under the umbrella of social responsibility.

The consequences of that shift have been detrimental. DEI has, unfortunately, sown discord within companies and society at large. It often privileges select groups, leading to a decline in morale and a hostile environment. Rather than fostering unity, DEI may intensify a narrative of “oppressed versus oppressors,” which seeps into the wider culture.

Recent events have made the implications all too real. The shocking assassination of Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University serves as a stark reminder of how harmful ideologies can radicalize individuals and damage civil discourse. While it’s not accurate to blame corporate DEI policies directly, they have, in many ways, normalized hostility toward opposing views.

The public reaction to Kirk’s death highlights just how twisted our conversations have become. While some companies have dismissed employees who overstepped boundaries, such actions seem insufficient in addressing the broader issue. As long as business leaders embrace DEI, there will be lingering doubts about whether poor decisions stem from ideological pressures. Recent struggles faced by brands like Budlight, Target, and Cracker Barrel illustrate the risks of catering to activist opinions at the cost of loyal customers and shareholder trust.

The 1792 Exchange is calling for a shift in direction.

• Reject activist groups that impose divisive DEI measures.
• Prioritize serving customers, employees, shareholders, and citizens.
• Affirm the value and dignity of all employees equally.
• Denounce celebrations of violence while fostering respect and unity in the workplace.

Corporate America’s path has become clearer. Companies can choose to continue down the divisive road or revert to practices that generate jobs, create value, and contribute positively to the nation’s prosperity.

The decision is urgent. It’s time to refocus on business fundamentals.