Cracker Barrel’s removal of DEI and Pride pages from its website after a logo change backlash highlights the battle against “wokification” and cultural shift.
Story Highlights
- Cracker Barrel faced backlash for removing its “Uncle Herschel” mascot.
- Conservative activists accused “wokification” and pressured the company.
- President Trump criticized the changes, boosting the backlash.
- In response, Cracker Barrel removed DEI and Pride pages from its site.
Cracker Barrel’s Controversial Logo Change
Cracker Barrel, a quintessentially American restaurant chain, recently faced a storm of criticism after it unveiled a new logo design that excluded its iconic “Uncle Herschel” mascot. The change was part of a broader attempt to modernize the brand, but it quickly backfired. Conservative voices accused the brand of bowing to “woke” culture, igniting a significant backlash that resonated deeply within right-wing circles.
This backlash is emblematic of a larger cultural war over corporate values, with many conservatives viewing the logo change as an erasure of traditional American symbols. Influencers like Chris Rufo and Benny Johnson were vocal in their criticisms, leveraging social media to rally support against what they saw as a concession to progressive agendas.
Response from Political Figures
The criticism from conservative figures was amplified when President Trump himself weighed in on the issue. Utilizing his platform on Truth Social, Trump urged Cracker Barrel to revert to its old logo, emphasizing the importance of traditional branding that resonates with the company’s core audience. His involvement underscored the political dimensions of what initially seemed like a simple business decision.
Trump’s commentary highlighted how cultural disagreements can quickly escalate into national debates, influencing corporate strategies and public perceptions. The administration’s engagement suggested a broader strategy to leverage such cultural flashpoints for political advantage, further intensifying the pressure on Cracker Barrel to respond decisively.
Cracker Barrel’s Strategic Retreat
Faced with mounting pressure, Cracker Barrel opted to remove its DEI and Pride pages from its website. This move was seen as an attempt to quell the backlash and realign with its traditional customer base. However, the decision also sparked criticism from progressive circles, highlighting the challenge companies face in navigating polarized social landscapes.
Cracker Barrel removes DEI and Pride pages from its website amid MAGA logo backlash https://t.co/s1UnVZjYYo
— Ehud the Judge (@NickyAlbertCook) August 29, 2025
The removal of these pages raises questions about the long-term implications for corporate diversity initiatives. While the company managed to appease its conservative critics in the short term, the long-term impact on its brand loyalty and public image remains uncertain. This situation serves as a cautionary tale for other corporations considering similar branding updates in today’s politically charged environment.
