How woke is CHS?

Introduction

CHS Inc., a major player in agribusiness, might appear like just another company focused on farming and grain. From diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies to loud support for LGBTQ+ initiatives, CHS has aligned itself with the social justice agenda. 

For those of us who prefer our businesses to focus on merit and tradition rather than politics and activism, CHS might not be the partner you’re looking for. Let’s unpack exactly how woke this brand is.

Financial Contributions to Progressive Causes

The CHS Foundation supports agricultural education and safety, which sounds fine on the surface. However, many of its grants go toward urban programs emphasizing racial equity and social justice​. CHS claims this is all part of supporting their communities, but it’s hard to overlook their focus on funding progressive ideals over sticking to core farming needs.

They’ve also earned a spot on the American Democracy Scorecard, which tracks corporate involvement in political advocacy. This report highlights that CHS’s contributions align with progressive political causes, so if you expect neutrality from this company, think again. Their financial backing shows just how committed they are to advancing left-leaning agendas​.

Prioritization of DEI Policies

DEI is the cornerstone of CHS Inc.’s hiring practices. The company openly promotes DEI goals, stating that diversity and inclusion are key to its vision of a “stronger workplace.” While it’s essential to treat everyone with respect, CHS seems more interested in ticking diversity boxes than ensuring the most qualified people are getting the job.

DEI’s vice president, Karisse Spray, says it’s about “creating an inclusive culture where everyone can thrive.” However, focusing too much on who you hire instead of what they bring can weaken the company from the inside out.

Mandatory Training Sessions

In true woke fashion, CHS Inc. doesn’t stop at promoting DEI—it makes sure all employees buy into it. The company mandates training on unconscious bias and cultural sensitivity, which have become standard in progressive circles but remain controversial​. These programs aim to reshape how employees think about race and privilege. While they may sound good to some, they’ve sparked debate over whether such training fosters genuine inclusivity or simply enforces a specific ideology​.

Support for LGBTQ+ Initiatives

The company has partnered with Pride in Agriculture to create events like “Harvest Pride,” which celebrates LGBTQ+ inclusion in farming​. While CHS says it’s all about building a diverse and welcoming environment, this move is a clear indicator of its commitment to pushing identity politics.

In a recent LinkedIn post, the company proudly declared that “inclusion is at the heart of our values.” That’s great if you’re looking for a company that waves the progressive flag, but for many traditional customers, this focus on LGBTQ+ issues may feel out of place in an agribusiness. 

Marketing and Branding

CHS Inc.’s marketing isn’t just about selling grain or improving agriculture, and it’s also about promoting social justice. Their recent partnership with MKC was an “investment in rural communities.” Still, it highlighted their focus on equity and sustainability​. “Equity” and “sustainability” may seem harmless, but they often serve as code for woke policies like climate justice and social equity programs.

The problem with this kind of branding is that it can feel more like virtue signaling than an actual commitment to improving the core business.

Conclusion

CHS Inc. has fully embraced the woke agenda. From pouring money into progressive causes and enforcing DEI hiring practices to mandatory bias training and openly supporting LGBTQ+ initiatives, the company has made its stance clear. CHS might not be the right fit for consumers who want businesses to focus on their industry and leave politics out of the equation.