How woke is Archer Daniels Midland (ADM)?

Introduction

You’ve probably heard of Archer Daniels Midland (ADM). It is one of those massive agricultural giants with their fingers on almost every food product we consume. But there’s more to ADM than just being a key player in the food and agriculture industry. 

This brand has made quite the name when embracing progressive causes, diversity initiatives, and the ever-present social justice agenda. If you’ve been wondering how deep their “wokeness” goes, stick around as we look closer.

Financial Contributions to Progressive Causes

Let’s start with the money trail because, as they say, “follow the money.” ADM’s political action committee (PAC) has been spreading its wealth liberally (pun intended), contributing over $1.3 million in the 2022 election cycle.

ADM openly admits that it supports candidates whose policies match its values or align with the interests of its shareholders, customers, and employees. 

Prioritization of DEI Policies

ADM’s DEI policies show their interest in building an “inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and has the opportunity to contribute to their full potential.” ADM has gone beyond lip service by rolling out a policy that protects forests, biodiversity, and communities.

Juan Luciano, ADM’s Chairman and CEO, said, “Our new policy represents a significant step forward in our efforts to protect the planet’s forests and communities, demonstrating ADM’s commitment to a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable future.” 

Mandatory Training Sessions

Despite ADM’s DEI statements, they’ve been tight-lipped about whether they enforce those classic woke training sessions on unconscious bias or critical race theory. It’s hard to say if employees must sit through hours of “wokeness 101.” 

Support for LGBTQ+ Initiatives

ADM scored 100 on the Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s 2022 Corporate Equality Index (CEI). If you’re familiar with this index, you’ll know it’s not easy to get that perfect score unless you give your all on the LGBTQ+ support front. 

After that, ADM released a statement expressing their pride in being recognized for creating a workplace where all employees, including LGBTQ+ team members, feel valued, respected, and included.

Marketing and Branding

ADM’s sustainability plan states that it is “committed to working alongside our customers to provide innovative, sustainable solutions that address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.” 

In a stronger attempt to market themselves as sustainability champions, Juan Luciano, CEO of ADM, said, “Our objective is to leverage our unique capabilities to drive sustainable growth, both for our company and society as a whole.” 

Conclusion

ADM’s commitment to DEI, unwavering support for LGBTQ+ rights, and sustainability-focused marketing make it clear that it is leaning hard into woke culture. It’s not the most extreme woke brand out there, but it plays in the big leagues.