A Black farmers association is calling for the resignation of the CEO of Tractor Supply and potential boycotts because of a controversial move of the company to ban diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. This move came after their conservative customers called for them to stop trying to curb climate change and boost social inclusion.
Call for Resignation
The National Black Farmers Association demanded the resignation of Tractor Supply’s CEO on Tuesday. The rural retailer announced it would abandon most of its diversity and climate advocacy efforts, prompting a call from the group for leadership change.
Backlash Intensifies
Tractor Supply, known for its farming and pet supplies, faces increasing backlash. Conservative activists had criticized the company’s inclusivity and climate efforts, influencing their recent decision to stop its progressive efforts.
Controversial Cuts
Last week, Tractor Supply declared it would eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion roles and stop sponsoring non business activities like Pride festivals. Socially conscious customers argue this move is counterproductive.
A Step Backwards
John Boyd Jr., president of the National Black Farmers Association, expressed deep disappointment. He believes this decision reverses progress in race relations, particularly in rural America.
Silence from Tractor Supply
Tractor Supply declined to provide further comments on the matter. The company, headquartered in Brentwood, Tennessee, operates over 2,200 stores nationwide.
Rural Roots
Tractor Supply’s customer base consists largely of rural shoppers needing farm and ranch supplies. Its stores are frequented by members of the National Black Farmers Association, among others.
Long-Time Patrons
Boyd noted that Black farmers, including himself, have been loyal Tractor Supply customers for years. He mentioned personally spending over $10,000 on supplies at his local store this year.
Activist Influence
Conservative activists have been vocal on social media, opposing Tractor Supply’s DEI and climate initiatives. The company stated it was responding to customer feedback with these new controversial changes.
Shift in Strategy
This decision marks a significant shift from Tractor Supply’s previous messaging, which highlighted diversity and inclusion. The company had been trying to appeal to younger consumers, including former city dwellers.
Efforts to Engage
The NBFA attempted to address its concerns with Tractor Supply’s CEO before calling for his resignation. Their repeated efforts were unsuccessful, leading to the current demand.
Boyd Calls for Action
John Boyd Jr. declared that it’s time to take a stand against Tractor Supply’s recent actions. He hinted at a possible boycott if the company doesn’t change its course soon.
Customers Leaving
Some customers, like Squirrelwood Equine Sanctuary in New York, have already taken their business elsewhere. The sanctuary spends over $65,000 annually at Tractor Supply but is now looking for alternatives.
Personal Impact
Beth Hyman, co-founder of Squirrelwood and openly gay, confronted her local Tractor Supply manager about the decision. The sanctuary later posted its stance on social media, garnering significant support. Hyman criticized the company’s decision, which she views as capitulating to a hate campaign.
Legal and Social Pressures
Legal challenges to diversity efforts have intensified since the Supreme Court’s 2023 ruling on affirmative action. Conservative activists are pushing to extend these challenges into the corporate world.
Broader Discontent
Other organizations and patrons have expressed their disappointment with Tractor Supply’s announcement. The company plans to stop submitting data to the Human Rights Campaign, sparking further outrage.
Human Rights Campaign Response
Eric Bloem of the Human Rights Campaign condemned Tractor Supply’s decision as a betrayal of its own community. The organization had collaborated with Tractor Supply to foster inclusive policies for years.
Lack of Consultation
Despite the National Black Farmers Association’s long standing efforts, Boyd revealed that Tractor Supply did not consult them on diversity goals. The NBFA was recently invited to apply for a partnership but was not selected.
