Costco is pushing back on a shareholder proposal that urges the wholesale club operator to conduct an evaluation of any business risks posed by its diversity, equity and inclusion practices. Investors were expected to vote on the recommendation during the company’s annual meeting Thursday.

As many American companies beat a hasty retreat from the diversity, equity and inclusion programs they once embraced, the bulk retailer Costco Wholesale Corp. has become one of DEI’s few remaining public proponents.

Costco shareholders overwhelmingly voted against a proposal that the company characterized as a way to undermine DEI policies.

Costco’s board of directors rejected anti-diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts, noting the company will defend “respect and inclusion” as efforts are underway nationwide to strike the practices.