Edward Jones Fights Back In Challenge To Diversity Program

A White male plaintiff has sued financial services firm Edward Jones over its “Goodknight” program, which allegedly incentivizes financial advisors to transition clients to female or other “diverse” advisors. The plaintiff in Winter v. Edward D. Jones & Co. claims that the company diversity program violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. According to the plaintiff, the program creates a disadvantage to him and other straight White male employees.

In response to a fourth amended complaint, which now identifies all White financial advisors (FAs) as part of its proposed class, Edward Jones pointed out that the plaintiff is attempting to include White female FAs even though they also are beneficiaries of the program. The company characterizes this allegation as an “irreconcilable” conflict.