Right-Wing Conspiracy Theorists Blame Diversity and ESG Policies for Boeing’s Recent Mishaps
In the wake of several incidents involving Boeing aircraft over the past week, far-right figures have been quick to point fingers at the company’s diversity, equality, and inclusion (DEI) policies, as well as its support for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives. These conspiracists claim, without evidence, that these policies have led to unqualified flight crews and plummeting manufacturing standards.
James Lindsay’s Baseless Claims on the Joe Rogan Experience
James Lindsay, an anti-LGBTQ extremist known for spreading conspiracy theories, appeared on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast on Thursday, where he suggested that Boeing could be “deliberately committing suicide as an organization” due to its adherence to ESG and DEI policies. Lindsay went on to speculate that the Chinese-made Comac C919 aircraft, which closely resembles the Boeing 737, could be positioned to replace the US-made plane as a result of “big dirty international business.”
Donald Trump Jr. Echoes the Conspiracy
On his own podcast, Donald Trump Jr. claimed that Boeing’s supposed demise due to diversity policies symbolizes a broader collapse of Western civilization:
“This is American decline. This is happening across our country. This is because of ridiculous policies, stupidity, DEI, and everything. This is what’s happening to America in a broad-spectrum way.”
Boeing’s Response and Diversity Report
Boeing has stated that it is gathering more information about the recent incidents and is cooperating with a Department of Justice criminal investigation into the Alaska Airlines blowout. The company’s latest diversity report, covering 2020 to 2022, reveals that it has not yet met its self-imposed DEI goals for hiring women and Black people.
The Spread of the Boeing Conspiracy Theory
Despite the lack of evidence, the Boeing conspiracy theory has gained traction among the wider right-wing community online. Far-right radio host Glenn Beck and corporate travel agency founder Michael O’Fallon have both shared posts on X (formerly Twitter) suggesting that China is poised to fill the void left by Boeing’s alleged downfall due to DEI policies.
The baseless allegations have also spread to far-right message boards, Telegram channels, and X, with some users claiming that the accidents are part of a deliberate effort to discourage Americans from flying. QAnon influencer John Sabal even linked the incidents to a global plot to undermine Western democracies, citing UN Agenda 2030’s supposed restrictions on air travel for the general population.
As the conspiracy theory continues to gain traction, it is crucial to approach these claims with skepticism and rely on factual evidence rather than baseless speculation.
1 Comment
Seriously? Blaming Boeing accidents on intentional crashes sounds like a stretch even for conspiracy theorists.