How woke is Entergy?

Introduction

Entergy Corporation powers millions of homes in the southern United States, but is it also powering progressive agendas? From funding social justice initiatives to embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) into every facet of their business, Entergy seems more focused on ideology than energy. 

Let’s dig into their policies, spending, and branding to see if this is a company putting politics before practicality.

Financial Contributions to Progressive Causes

If you’re looking for a company pouring money into politically charged causes, Entergy fits the bill. Through the Entergy Charitable Foundation, the company funds projects that it says aim to “address economic equity and social progress.” It also highlights its work on “fostering equity in the communities we serve while addressing climate change impacts” through its Environmental Justice Initiatives.

While helping underserved communities sounds great on paper, it’s hard to ignore the buzzwords like “equity” and “social progress” that tie these contributions to broader ideological movements. Entergy’s focus is less on practical solutions and more on signaling its alignment with progressive causes.

Prioritization of DEI Policies

Entergy’s DEI policies are front and center in their corporate narrative, with diversity touted as a “performance driver.” According to the company, they “aim to reflect the diversity of our communities in our hiring practices and leadership representation”.

They’ve also partnered with CEO Action for Diversity & Inclusion, a group known for promoting identity-focused hiring and workplace practices. Entergy proudly declares that this partnership helps create a culture where employees can “bring their authentic selves to work.”

Focusing so much on identity-driven metrics overlooks qualifications and merit. For a company that literally keeps the lights on, wouldn’t it make sense to prioritize skills over quotas?

Mandatory Training Sessions

Ever sat through one of those “unconscious bias” training sessions and wondered what it actually accomplished? At Entergy, they’re mandatory. The company says these sessions “empower employees to recognize and overcome personal prejudices,” ensuring an inclusive work environment.

They also emphasize that “mandatory DEI training sessions are critical to aligning our workforce with Entergy’s equity and inclusion objectives.” Translation? Employees get a crash course in divisive ideologies like critical race theory, whether they agree with them or not. Unity in the workplace is important, but forcing these views is more polarizing than productive.

Support for LGBTQ+ Initiatives

Entergy doesn’t just participate in Pride celebrations—they roll out the rainbow carpet. The company “proudly participates in Pride celebrations,” positioning itself as an unwavering ally to the LGBTQ+ community. They’ve also sponsored Pride events, which they describe as “demonstrating our support for diversity and equality in every form.”

When supporting employees and communities dominates public messaging, they are at the expense of customers and employees who hold more traditional values. Balance matters and Entergy tips the scales.

Marketing and Branding

Entergy’s marketing is as much about social narratives as it is about energy. Their “Bright Future” campaign promotes renewable energy but also leans heavily on equity messaging, claiming to “address equity and inclusion challenges in the energy sector.”

Their recent realignment of teams focuses on sustainability and “customer-centric strategies.” They’re weaving progressive ideals into their branding, but, are customers looking for energy solutions or a lecture on equity?

Conclusion

Entergy is making bold moves—but not everyone is cheering them on. From funneling money into social justice causes to enforcing DEI training and promoting LGBTQ+ advocacy, this energy giant seems more invested in signaling its values than delivering apolitical service. For customers who prefer a focus on reliable energy over ideological agendas, Entergy is not the company for you.