Automaker Ford Motor announced on Wednesday that it will be making changes to its diversity, equity, and inclusion program, including ending its participation in an LGBTQ advocacy group's ranking system. This decision follows a trend among several U.S. companies that have sought to redefine their diversity initiatives amid mounting pressure from conservative groups.

In an internal memo addressed to employees, Ford CEO Jim Farley acknowledged the importance of respecting the diverse beliefs held by both employees and customers. He emphasized the evolving external and legal landscape surrounding political and social issues as a driving factor behind the policy revision.

The decision by Ford comes in the wake of similar moves made by other major companies, including JPMorgan Chase, Harley Davidson, and most recently, Lowe's. These revisions to the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies have been prompted by heightened focus on addressing racial and gender disparities in leadership, following protests against systemic inequality triggered by the police killings of George Floyd and other Black Americans in 2020.

However, recent developments have seen some companies backtrack on their DEI programs due to pressure from conservative legal organizations. Companies have received shareholder letters since 2021, claiming that their diversity initiatives constitute illegal discrimination and breach directors' duties to investors.

The opposition to diversity policies has gained momentum following a U.S. Supreme Court ruling in June 2023, which struck down affirmative action in university admissions. While this ruling does not directly impact employers, it has energized groups opposed to DEI efforts. Advocates of greater diversity argue that this opposition poses a threat to the progress of underrepresented groups, particularly in leadership positions.

Notably, former President Donald Trump, the current Republican candidate for U.S. president, has been highly critical of DEI initiatives. In response to these concerns, Farley stated in the memo that Ford will now prioritize the well-being of employees and customers, rather than publicly commenting on divisive issues.

As part of its policy change, Ford announced its decision to discontinue its participation in certain external culture surveys, including one organized by the LGBTQ advocacy group, Human Rights Campaign, as well as various "best places to work" lists. This move has drawn criticism from Human Rights Campaign President Kelley Robinson, who accused Ford of neglecting its financial duty to recruit and retain top talent from diverse backgrounds.

While Ford confirmed the accuracy of the internal memo, the company declined to provide further comments when contacted by Reuters. The policy revision was first reported by Bloomberg, with conservative activist Robby Starbuck sharing the memo with the news agency.

Starbuck expressed satisfaction with the policy changes, calling it a "great start" in his social media posts. He noted that large organizations are now being compelled to modify their policies in response to external pressure.

Ford's decision to revise its diversity policy highlights the ongoing debates surrounding DEI efforts in corporate America. It remains to be seen how other companies will respond to similar pressures and navigate the delicate balance between internal initiatives and external expectations.