Anti-LGBTQ+ and DEI initiative groups joined forces online to launch a vigorous boycott against Toyota. In a short span of time, the collective pressure exerted by these groups compelled Toyota to yield.
Toyota has recently faced backlash and criticism for its stance on LGBTQ+ culture and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The company has been accused of being too “woke” and has received significant backlash from certain individuals and groups.
In response to this backlash, Toyota has made efforts to appease its conservative consumer base and distance itself from its previous support for progressive causes.
Toyota abandons LGBQT+ support and DEI initiatives
Toyota Motor Corporation recently announced its plans to streamline its community activities in the United States.
In a memo shared with 5,000 employees and 1,500 dealerships, the company emphasized its commitment to aligning these activities with STEM education and workforce readiness.
This move reflects Toyota’s dedication to promoting and supporting initiatives that contribute to the development of a skilled workforce in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
In addition, the company has decided to discontinue its involvement in the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index and other similar corporate culture surveys. This decision has led to certain employees feeling that their voices are being suppressed.
In response to an anti-DEI activist named Robby Starbuck, the company made this decision. Robby Starbuck, a failed politician who previously directed music videos in Hollywood and has a significant online presence, was the catalyst for this action.
Calling on individuals to boycott Toyota because of its endorsement of LGBTQ+ events and DEI initiatives, he sparked a wave of criticism from both employees and dealerships.
After the boycott calls gained momentum, Toyota made the decision to reduce its support and involvement in inclusion initiatives. It is important to mention that these programs were primarily led by employee groups, rather than being directly initiated by Toyota itself.
It’s quite surprising, but not entirely unexpected, that Toyota made this move. As reported by the 19th News, Toyota has been the largest donor to politicians who support anti-gay bills.
During the 2020 and 2022 election cycles, it contributed a total of $601,500 to support anti-gay bills. Additionally, it provided a donation of $150,000 towards the re-election campaign of Greg Abbot, the Governor of Texas.
Conservatives expressed their displeasure, although it remains uncertain whether the boycott had any significant impact on Toyota’s sales of trucks, SUVs, and cars.