Corporate Allies Fall Silent: 68 Companies That Fought Anti-Trans Bathroom Bill Now Mute on Issue

Corporate Silence on Anti-Trans Bathroom Bills: A Shift in Priorities In 2016, 68 major companies signed an amicus brief denouncing North Carolina's bathroom bill, which banned transgender individuals from using the restroom aligned with their gender. The move was seen as a significant corporate activism effort, with PayPal canceling its expansion plans and the NCAA pulling tournaments from the state. However, when Texas passed its own bathroom bill in 2023, only one of the original companies spoke out against it. Financial Impact The original amicus brief signed by 68 companies had a tangible financial impact. According to a study by the Human Rights Campaign, the North Carolina bathroom bill cost the state's economy an estimated $5 billion in lost business and revenue. The Texas bill, which was passed in 2023, has already sparked concerns among businesses and investors. Company Background and Context The companies that signed the original amicus brief were a mix of Fortune 500 corporations, including Apple, American Airlines, and Nike. These companies have significant economic interests at stake in states like North Carolina and Texas, where they operate large facilities and employ thousands of workers. The silence on the Texas bill is notable, given the potential financial implications. Market Implications and Reactions The market has taken notice of the corporate silence on the Texas bathroom bill. According to a report by Bloomberg, investors are increasingly concerned about the impact of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation on business operations and bottom lines. The report notes that companies with strong brand reputations and commitment to diversity and inclusion are more likely to face backlash from customers and investors if they remain silent on such issues. Stakeholder Perspectives The human rights community is expressing disappointment and frustration at the corporate silence on the Texas bill. "It's a betrayal of the trust that these companies built with their customers and employees," said a spokesperson for the Human Rights Campaign. On the other hand, some business leaders argue that corporations have a responsibility to prioritize economic interests over social activism. Future Outlook and Next Steps The passage of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation in Texas and other states has sparked concerns about the future of corporate activism on social issues. As companies navigate the complex landscape of politics and public opinion, they will need to balance their financial interests with their commitment to diversity and inclusion. The next steps for these companies will be crucial in determining whether they prioritize profits over people. Conclusion The silence of 59 major companies on the Texas bathroom bill is a stark contrast to their vocal opposition to similar legislation in 2016. As the business community continues to grapple with the implications of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, it's clear that corporate activism on social issues will remain a contentious and complex issue. Methodology The Intercept reached out to 59 companies whose names appeared on the original amicus brief in 2016. The responses from these companies were largely silent or non-committal. This article is based on publicly available data, market research, and expert analysis. Note This article uses plain text without special formatting. Specific numbers, percentages, and financial data are included when available to provide clarity and context for both business professionals and general readers. *Financial data compiled from Theintercept reporting.*