'America Reports' panelists Taylor Riggs and Jackie DeAngelis discuss the controversy surrounding the iconic motorcycle company and the importance of political neutrality in businesses. Harley-Davidson released a statement on Monday renouncing DEI and other controversial company initiatives in the wake of social-media outrage and withering pressure from longtime loyal bikers. "It is critical to our business that we hire and retain the best talent and that all employees feel welcome," the statement reads.
"That said, we have not operated a DEI function since April 2024, and we do not have a DEI function today. We do not have hiring quotas and we no longer have supplier diversity spend goals." HARLEY-DAVIDSON CEO COMPARES HIMSELF TO ‘TALIBAN’ IN EFFORT TO REMAKE MOTORCYCLE BRAND The statement also said Harley-Davidson was reassessing employee training initiatives and sponsorships while refocusing on its most loyal customers.
"As a consumer brand, we will focus exclusively on growing the sport of motorcycling and retaining our loyal riding community, in addition to the support we already provide to first responders, active military members and veterans." Jochen Zeitz, former chief executive officer of Puma AG, is shown speaking at the International Herald Tribune's Techno Luxury conference in Berlin, Germany, on Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2009.
He assumed the role of CEO of Harley-Davidson in May 2020. (Michele Tantussi/Bloomberg via Getty Images) One veteran felt it was a long overd.