US Businesses Need To Take a Stance on These 12 Issues

The 2025 Bentley University-Gallup Business in Society report surveyed 3,007 adults in the US, asking whether they thought businesses should take a public stance on 12 key issues society faces today.

Based on the findings, support and expectation for businesses to speak out have increased this year.

Here are the biggest issues that businesses should take a stance on:

• Climate change – 58%
• Free speech – 58%
• Mental health – 57%
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion – 56%
• Healthcare issues – 55%
• Racial issues – 49%
• Immigration policy – 41%
• Gun laws – 40%
• LGBTQ+ issues – 39%
• International conflicts – 33%
• Abortion – 26%
• Religion – 18%

As you can see, climate change and free speech take the lead in issues customers want your business to care about. That said, immigration, free speech, and international conflicts saw the greatest percentage increase since the 2024 report.

With these 12 current issues in mind, there are a few ways your business can take a stance:

• Use social media – You can share your business stance through your content, boost activity during relevant holidays or events, and engage with other creators or brands who share the same interests
• Share your business values – This can be a separate page on your website or via a post on social media, but it’s good to let your audience know what your business cares about
• Hold in-person events – If your business cares strongly about an issue, you could run an event or pop-up to raise money and awareness, such as a book signing or talk
• Contribute to charities and causes – Your business could set aside a portion of your profits or run a dedicated sale for a specific charity (for example, you could donate money to an LGBTQ+ organization during Pride Month, or all year round!)

Most importantly, remain authentic. Consumers will see right through your business if you lie or take a stance just for appearance’s sake, and this could severely damage your brand’s reputation. After all, actions speak louder than words.

This can easily be avoided if your business stays true to its values. If customers don’t agree with your stance, they don’t have to shop with you. Those who do agree are more likely to trust your brand and engage with the community your business has built.