Costco
In their response, the company's board noted that their commitment to DEI followed the company's code of ethics. Justin Sullivan/Getty Images

The Costco board has refused to stop implementing policies of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) after a group of shareholders expressed concerns about the policies, earning them an outpour of support from social media users supporting their decision.

Shareholders provided the Costco board with a proposal aiming to "report on the risks of maintaining DEI efforts." They voiced concerns that Costco employees may become impacted by "illegal discrimination because they are white, Asian, male or straight."

In their response, the company's board noted that their commitment to DEI followed the company's code of ethics, and that it was considered necessary to the overarching success of the company.

"Our Board has considered this proposal and believes that our commitment to an enterprise rooted in respect and inclusion is appropriate and necessary," the response reads. "Our success at Costco Wholesale has been built on service to our critical stakeholders: employees, members and suppliers. Our efforts around diversity, equity and inclusion follow our code of ethics."

"Having diversity in our supplier base, including attention to small businesses, is beneficial for many of the same reasons diversity benefits our Company," the Board continued. "We believe that it fosters creativity and innovation in the merchandise and services that we offer our members."

Social media users quickly took to online platforms to express their support of Costco, commending the company for upholding its principles.

"Costco responded to shareholders requesting that it withdraw from DEI policies. The response was direct and to the point: Costco says, "Our board has considered this proposal and believes that our commitment to an enterprise rooted in respect & inclusion is appropriate & necessary."

❤️COSTCO♥️," wrote one user.

"Yes! At least one company has a spine," said another.

"Good to see. DEI includes the people I work with, who are adults with disabilities. Inclusive businesses help people build lives," wrote a third user.

"Costco being Costco. Still committed to inclusivity," wrote another.

Originally published by Latin Times.