Chick-fil-A Faces Backlash for ‘Woke’ Shift Amid Conservative Criticism

Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, criticized Chick-fil-A’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives during an interview with guest host Todd Starnes. Perkins argued that while major corporations including Coca-Cola have scaled back such programs amid political and consumer pushback, Chick-fil-A has “dug in” on policies he described as “woke.”

The remarks followed Perkins’ emphasis on the fast-food chain’s long-standing Christian identity and its founder, S. Truett Cathy. He stated that Chick-fil-A’s current direction—specifically what he characterized as celebrations of same-sex marriage at some locations—represents a clear departure from the company’s historical values.

Perkins referenced Chick-fil-A’s past defense of traditional marriage, which previously triggered nationwide boycotts but also strengthened support among conservative consumers. He noted that the company has “clearly changed” since then.

While Perkins expressed no regret for his prior support of Chick-fil-A, he urged consumers opposing DEI and related social policies to reconsider their business choices. “It’s one thing to hold yourself out as a faith-based company,” Perkins said, “but then to embrace values that are counter to that.”