Nationwide faces backlash over woke policies in America

A campaign has emerged to inform the public about Nationwide Insurance's adoption of progressive corporate policies, particularly its support for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. This includes backing the Ohio Fairness Act, which mandates that businesses allow individuals to use restrooms corresponding to their gender identity. Additionally, Nationwide has contributed significant funds to organizations like Stonewall Columbus, which promotes events such as drag queen story hours, raising concerns among conservative groups about the impact on children. The campaign, titled 'Nationwide: Not On Your Side,' was launched by the Center for Christian Virtue, highlighting a perceived contradiction between Nationwide's family-friendly image and its support for what some consider radical legislation. The initiative coincides with the Farm Science Review, an agricultural conference in Ohio, aiming to reach rural and agricultural clients who may feel alienated by these policies. Critics argue that Nationwide's alignment with the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Equality Index pressures corporations to adopt leftist policies, including healthcare for transgender employees and partnerships with minority-owned businesses. This has led to a backlash, with several companies, including Ford and Lowe's, withdrawing from the index to avoid penalties. Recent polls indicate a growing discontent among Americans regarding corporate involvement in political matters, with many believing that DEI programs discriminate against certain groups. As public sentiment shifts, corporations may face increasing pressure to reconsider their political stances and the implications of their corporate policies.