Harley-Davidson’s Shift To Woke Culture Alienates Loyal Biker Community
The iconic American motorcycle manufacturer, Harley-Davidson, has found itself at the center of controversy following revelations about CEO Jochen Zeitz’s progressive policies. Conservative activist Robby Starbuck has spearheaded a campaign to expose companies that promote “woke” agendas seemingly at odds with their traditional customer base.
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Starbuck’s recent statements on X (formerly Twitter) have drawn attention to what he describes as Harley-Davidson’s troubling embrace of leftist initiatives. According to Starbuck, Zeitz, a German climate activist with a fervent commitment to progressive causes, has been steering the company towards an agenda that alienates its core customers.
“It’s time to expose Harley-Davidson,” Starbuck declared. He detailed how Zeitz’s leadership has ushered in a variety of progressive measures, including critical race theory and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. Starbuck highlighted that Harley-Davidson’s so-called sustainability report boasts of its employees’ participation in training sessions on LGBTQ+ allyship and social identities.
“Jochen Zeitz is an unusual choice to lead Harley-Davidson,” Starbuck remarked. “He’s German, he’s an outspoken climate activist, and now he’s driving Harley into the heart of the woke agenda.”
Starbuck’s investigation reveals that Harley-Davidson is a platinum founding member of the LGBT Chamber of Commerce in Wisconsin and has hosted LGBTQ+ events at its corporate offices. He sarcastically noted, “Harley Davidson even hosted an LGBTQ+ boot camp at their corporate offices and look at that sweet cake they got them. Isn’t that just so inclusive?”
The conservative commentator also condemned Harley-Davidson’s financial support for various LGBTQ+ causes. “They sponsored an LGBTQ+ pride event with a so-called rage room,” Starbuck said, referring to a controversial event where participants could vent their frustrations in a designated space. He continued, “And right next to that was a storytime area for children featuring drag queens. How much has Harley donated to these causes? Turns out, millions. United Way Milwaukee boasted about one of those million-dollar donations.”
Starbuck’s campaign against Harley-Davidson’s “woke” initiatives has sparked outrage among the motorcycle community, which has traditionally held the brand in high esteem. UFC champion Sean Strickland has publicly declared his intention to abandon the brand, voicing his frustration with Harley-Davidson’s political stance.
“I don’t want to make this video,” Strickland admitted. “I’ve owned Harleys for most of my life, but I would never own one again. If you love America, you won’t own a Harley. And let me explain to you why I’m so upset and why you should be too.”
Strickland’s sentiments reflect a growing backlash against what many conservatives view as corporate overreach into social issues. The motorcycle community’s response underscores a broader discontent with companies that, in the eyes of critics, are straying from their core values to embrace progressive agendas.