Johnson: Costco’s DEI stand shows how to do the right thing
Peter Johnson: Celebrating Costco for its commitment to DEI
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Johnson: Costco’s DEI stand shows how to do the right thing
Commitment to values shows when the chips are down.
By Peter Johnson
Contributing Columnist
Apr. 12, 2025
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Updated 12:00 p.m. CDT
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3 min. read
I recently turned 80 and realized I have fewer years left before me than behind me. Since The Dallas Morning News has honored me with the platform to express my opinions and views, I want to highlight more of the good in the world. We see, hear and read about the bad and ugly daily, but we also need to hear about the good.
That’s why I want to highlight Costco’s support for its diversity, equity and inclusion policies.
I’ve always admired Costco, not just for the free samples, bulk deals and the legendary $1.50 hot dog combo, but also for how it runs its business. Unlike many corporations that crumble under pressure, Costco has taken a stand. Costco didn’t back down when faced with growing government pressure to roll back its DEI policies, and for that, I applaud it.
We live in a time when companies are forced to stand firm in their values or cave to the loudest voices demanding a step backward. Some have quietly dismantled their DEI initiatives. But Costco? It has held its ground, recognizing that diversity and inclusion aren’t just buzzwords; they’re essential to a thriving workplace and a successful business.
“Our efforts at diversity, equity and inclusion remind and reinforce with everyone at our Company the importance of creating opportunities for all,” the Costco board of directors wrote to shareholders. “We believe that these efforts enhance our capacity to attract and retain employees who will help our business succeed.”
I can tell you from experience that a workplace where employees feel seen is a workplace that runs better. People work harder when they believe their company values them. Customers support businesses that reflect their communities. And companies that invest in diversity tend to be more innovative and resilient. It’s not just about being the right thing to do; it’s good business sense.
I remember the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. telling us in a Southern Christian Leadership staff meeting that a man’s true character is not seen where he stands when times are good but where he stands at times of adversity and controversy. Costco and businesses like Costco are showing their true character in these times of political adversity.
Costco’s commitment reflects the title of the famous Spike Lee movie Do the Right Thing. Costco’s leaders seems to understand that by doing the right thing, they provide a great work environment that fosters a high retention rate, which impacts their bottom line. Costco knows treating people well pays off.
I’m tired of people shouting that corporations should stay out of politics. I don’t hear them saying that when corporations donate to their political parties, their political races or their political causes. This isn’t about politics; it’s about standing by your principles.
I’m proud to see that Costco is sending the message that discrimination and inequality are real, and to say it doesn’t exist is not just naive but dangerous.
Costco and other companies are showing us that you can prioritize your people no matter the political opposition. They are showing us that you can take a stand on principle. I can’t believe we’re having this debate in 2025. Let me take that back: I can believe it. Just when you think you’ve arrived, you realize that you still have a long way to go.
I remember a statement from my youth that said, “Is there anything worse than someone who does not keep their word?” I grew up in a time when, if someone made a promise or gave their word, they did everything they could to keep that promise. My mother once said to me, “Son, when someone doesn’t keep their word, it shows you that they don’t care. They have no backbone. That’s a dangerous person.”
Costco, thank you for showing that corporate responsibility isn’t just about profits and shareholders. Thank you for reminding us that diversity is a strength. Thank you for proving that standing firm in your values is possible, even when the pressure is high.
I’ll be renewing my Costco membership. And yes, I’ll grab a hot dog on my way out.
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BREAKING: Shareholders of Merck & Co one of the largest pharma companies in the world, voted today to reject an anti-DEI proposal, 99-1 percent. Merck Board recommended shareholders vote against proposal that called for eliminating "discriminatory DEI milestones" from executive compensation.
