ABC pulls sponsorship of several LGBTQ+ organisations

US broadcaster ABC has withdrawn its sponsorship of several LGBTQ+ organisations, prompting criticism from advocacy groups and raising questions about corporate support for diversity initiatives.

In a statement, the network confirmed it would no longer provide financial backing or promotional support to a number of LGBTQ+ charities and events. While ABC did not name all the organisations affected, the decision is understood to include partnerships tied to Pride celebrations and community outreach programmes.

Company representatives said the move followed an internal review of sponsorship priorities. “We regularly assess our partnerships to ensure they align with our business objectives and audience strategy,” a spokesperson said, adding that ABC “remains committed to telling inclusive stories on screen”.

The announcement has drawn backlash from campaigners, who argue that withdrawing sponsorship risks undermining grassroots organisations that rely on corporate funding. Several groups said the decision sends a troubling signal at a time when LGBTQ+ rights in the United States are increasingly contested.

“It’s disappointing to see a major broadcaster step back from visible support,” one advocacy organisation said, warning that such moves could have a “chilling effect” on other companies considering similar action.

Media analysts suggest the decision may reflect broader shifts within the industry, as some corporations reconsider public-facing diversity commitments amid political and cultural pressures. In recent years, several high-profile brands have faced both boycotts and shareholder scrutiny over their involvement in social issues.

However, others note that corporate sponsorship has long played a key role in funding LGBTQ+ events and services, particularly during annual Pride festivals across major US cities.

ABC has not indicated whether the change will affect its editorial coverage of LGBTQ+ topics or programming, and insisted it would continue to “reflect a wide range of perspectives” in its content.