Target's CEO, Brian Cornell, recently engaged in a dialogue with left-wing activist Al Sharpton to address the retail giant's decision to scale back its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
This meeting comes amid Sharpton's contemplation of a potential boycott against the company.
According to The Post Millennial, Target initiated the conversation with Sharpton following declarations from certain activist groups that they would cease shopping at the retailer due to the DEI program reductions. While Sharpton has yet to officially call for a boycott, he has expressed support for groups urging consumers to avoid the chain.
"You cant have an election come and all of a sudden, change your old positions," Sharpton remarked prior to the meeting. "If an election determines your commitment to fairness, then fine, you have a right to withdraw from us, but then we have a right to withdraw from you."
Sharpton indicated that a boycott might be on the table if Target fails to demonstrate a commitment to collaborating with black-owned businesses and supporting the black community. "I said, If [Cornell] wants to have a candid meeting, well meet," Sharpton recounted regarding Target's outreach. "I want to first hear what he has to say." Following the meeting, he described the discussion as "constructive and candid," and plans to update allies, including Rev. Dr. Jamal Bryant, on the outcomes.
Historically, Target has aligned itself with progressive causes, notably championing DEI efforts in the wake of George Floyd's death and offering a variety of products catering to LGBTQ individuals. However, the retailer faced significant backlash in 2023 after introducing "tuck-friendly" swimwear for children, as reported by the New York Post. This controversy prompted Target to reduce its pride-themed merchandise the following year, just before Pride Month.
In the broader context of corporate America, the election of President Donald Trump marked a shift, with several major companies, including Amazon and Walmart, announcing reductions or eliminations of their DEI programs. Target followed suit, rolling back its DEI initiatives shortly after Trump assumed office in late January. This move reflects a broader trend of companies reassessing their commitments to progressive policies in response to changing political landscapes and consumer sentiments.
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