A recent consumer survey from various advocacy groups has raised concerns about an insurance company’s rebranding of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, suggesting that discriminatory practices persist despite the changes.
Andrea Lucas, who leads the Civil Rights Division as Attorney General, sent a letter containing these claims, with additional recipients including attorney generals from states like Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Alabama, West Virginia, and Ohio.
Tyler Green, a consumer rights attorney, noted in his letter that lawyers nationwide had communicated with both the consumer research group and Fox News. “In recent segments, Will Hillm, the Executive Director of Consumer Research, highlighted that some companies are phasing out their DEI initiatives,” the letter stated.
According to the letter, the term “belong” was used to describe how companies are rebranding their DEI efforts. Hillm expressed concern over the display of logos in these segments, suggesting that it showcased a continued discrimination program simply under a new name.
This letter follows a consumer survey report asserting that firms like Kohl, Dollar Tree, UPS, and Nationwide have modified their DEI policies to operate under different titles.
Hillm remarked, “This is essentially the same discrimination with a different label.” He emphasized that merely rebranding DEI initiatives won’t alter the underlying anti-white and anti-Asian sentiments they promote.
The letter further pointed out that both the consumer surveys and Fox Network have approached these issues seriously, seeking retractions or clarifications regarding any implied threats of a lawsuit related to the segments discussed.
Green mentioned that consumer research has declined to issue a retraction or clarification, stating that DEI efforts have been firmly established within their operations.
“Nationwide has committed to various DEI initiatives across its business practices, including recruitment and supplier relations,” the letter continued, asserting that the changes are often superficial, merely altering the terminology without altering practices.
The letter emphasized that DEI efforts are pervasive in employment practices and partnerships across various industries.
“Last year, we reinforced nationally that achieving a diverse and inclusive workforce is essential for our success,” it stated.
“The mission is to bridge the wealth gap through increased racial diversity and equity in the financial services sector and the communities served,” the letter added.
It also highlighted Nationwide’s partnerships with 17 organizations dedicated to DEI purposes.
As an example, the letter mentioned collaboration with the Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility, which evaluates the company’s inclusivity efforts and accountability in areas like employment and procurement.
Additionally, Nationwide’s affiliation with Black Enterprise stresses the necessity for transparency and effective outcomes within DEI programs, emphasizing that systemic barriers should be addressed to support black-owned businesses.
The letter pointed out that before April 2025, the company’s website mentioned a “supplier diversity” program aimed at promoting the growth of minority, women, LGBT, and veteran-owned firms.
It stated that the National Supplier Diversity Office is focused on education and partnerships with diverse suppliers, reporting a significant investment of over $43 million in diverse suppliers within the past year.
In a statement to Breitbart News, Hillm suggested that the company resorts to legal threats because it understands the discriminatory nature hidden within its DEI initiatives.
“Consumer research has valid data, and we stand firm in speaking the truth for our customers,” Hillm asserted. “As long as companies engage in discriminatory practices under the guise of shadows, they shouldn’t expect any leniency. Their ideology is embedded in partnerships and contributions, indicating they are not truly on the side of fairness.”
