As an Associate working for Walmart, I find myself sharing this platform with a large community of diverse individuals, including colleagues.in the BIPOC community. The recent removal of the company's Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, as well as gender-inclusive clothing, is a devastating blow that disservices this vibrant and diverse collective. 

In light of alarming trends, such as the increasing number of hate crimes incited by racism and white supremacy, Walmart's decision to step back on DEI initiatives further puts its affected employees at risk. The year 2020 alone experience a significant spike in hate crimes against people of color, with a 150% increase observed in major US cities (Source: Center for the Study of Hate & Extremism). I fear that this lapse in Walmart's commitment to DEI will only enhance the vulnerability of my colleagues and associated guests to discrimination and violence.

Moreover, removing gender-inclusive clothes does great harm to gender-diverse children who seek to affirm their identities. Forced to combat societal judgment, these young ones deserve access to products that help them express who they are openly and authentically, rather than have this aspect erased due to unwarranted sexualization and perversion of gender identities (or lack thereof) by transmisic far-right extremists.

We implore CEO Doug McMillon to not only reinstate Walmart's DEI efforts and gender-inclusive clothing but also to further improve these initiatives. Walmart, as a leading global establishment, should spearhead advancements in diversity and inclusivity, fostering a safer, more accepting society for everyone. Help create a change. Sign the petition.