Harley-Davidson, the iconic American motorcycle manufacturer, has recently come under fire for adopting policies that some believe are contrary to traditional American values.
The company, renowned for its embodiment of rugged American individualism, has been criticized by conservative commentator Glenn Beck and filmmaker Robby Starbuck for embracing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
According to The Blaze, Beck expressed his dismay at the shift in Harley-Davidson's stance, along with other quintessentially American brands such as John Deere, Tractor Supply, Ford, Chevrolet, and Indian. Beck nostalgically recalled a time when these brands were symbols of "pure American greatness," with no agenda beyond the preservation of American heritage. He lamented the infiltration of these companies by individuals who "get their marching orders from people like Larry Fink at Black Rock."
Harley-Davidson's recent actions have included supporting the Equality Act, which has been controversial due to its implications for gender-specific spaces such as bathrooms, sports, and locker rooms. The company also sponsored an all-ages Pride event featuring a rage room adjacent to a drag queen story time. Furthermore, Harley-Davidson required its 1800 employees to complete a virtual training program on becoming LGBTQ+ allies. The CEO also signed the CEO Action for Diversity and Inclusion pledge, designating February and March as "months of inclusion."
The company's DEI initiatives extended to its workforce, with white male employees being sent to a white male-only diversity training program. Harley-Davidson also expressed intentions to decrease the number of white suppliers and employees. Despite the company's subsequent apology and retraction of its leftist agenda, Beck argued that it is the responsibility of Americans to remind these companies of their original purpose and values.
Beck urged his listeners to reconnect with the essence of what makes American products great, stating, "American Made is more than just a slogan." He emphasized the importance of recognizing the hardworking men and women in factories and small towns across middle America who strive to provide a better life for their children. Beck encouraged parents to teach their children the value of hard work, stating, "Teach your kids that getting their hands dirty is a good thing, something fought, bled, and sweat for has meaningful value."
Beck concluded his commentary by asserting that the spirit of American individualism and hard work is what globalists fear most. He suggested that the connection between consumers and these traditional American brands extends to the top of the corporate boardroom, and that preserving this connection is crucial for maintaining American values. Beck's commentary serves as a reminder of the ongoing debate over the role of DEI initiatives in American businesses, and the tension between preserving traditional values and adapting to a changing societal landscape.
Login