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Republican AGs Challenge Costco's DEI Policies Amid Strike Threat

1/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Nineteen Republican attorneys general called on Costco to drop its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, labeling them discriminatory.
Costco's board defended its DEI initiatives, stating they support business growth and align with company values.
Concurrently, 18,000 Costco employees are considering a strike due to contract disputes, alleging the company is withholding profits from workers.

History

Historical Context

Nineteen Republican attorneys general have urged Costco to eliminate its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, claiming they are discriminatory. This echoes historical debates over affirmative action, notably Executive Order 11246 from 1965, which mandated such practices. The current conflict reflects ongoing tensions regarding workplace diversity, reminiscent of past legal battles over civil rights and employment equity in the U.S.

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Story summary

Nineteen Republican attorneys general called on Costco to drop its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, labeling them discriminatory.
Costco's board defended its DEI initiatives, stating they support business growth and align with company values.
Concurrently, 18,000 Costco employees are considering a strike due to contract disputes, alleging the company is withholding profits from workers.

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