Activists Demand Boycott of Target Over DEI Program Cuts
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Civil rights activists rallied outside Target’s headquarters to advocate for a nationwide boycott after the company announced it would reduce its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Following suit with other major retailers like Walmart, Target’s decision has sparked strong backlash among local activists who view it as a retreat from its previously strong stance on racial equity.
During a news conference attended by community leaders, Nekima Levy Armstrong, founder of the Racial Justice Network, expressed disbelief at Target’s withdrawal from its DEI commitment. From her perspective, “We thought that they would hold the line,” especially after the heightened focus on diversity following George Floyd’s tragic death in 2020. Activists reflected on Target’s past integrity, asserting that it now seems to have cowered under political pressure.
Jaylani Hussein, executive director of the Council on Islamic-American Relations in Minnesota, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that, given Target’s roots in a city that became synonymous with calls for racial justice, the company must face scrutiny. “If you were moved to do something good after the murder of George Floyd, it is time for you to stand up and boycott Target,” Hussein asserted, urging others to join the movement.
The boycott announcement attracted local Black Lives Matter representatives and sparked symbolic acts of resistance, such as attendees cutting their Target charge cards. Amid protest, a New Orleans-style brass band played songs, setting a spirited tone for the event, showcasing a community united in their dissent.
Target has yet to officially respond to the boycott call, though Kiera Fernandez, Target’s chief community impact and equity officer, described the company’s reduced equity goals as part of a strategic transition in a recent memo. According to her, they aim to adapt to the evolving landscape of consumer engagement, despite the backlash this might invite from loyal supporters.
Levy Armstrong criticized Target for failing to connect with local leaders and stressed that the community expected more from the retailer. Calling for immediate action, she stated, “Target knows what its presence and its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion means to this community.” Among other recommendations, she suggested consumers should purchase directly from Black-owned brands instead of supporting Target.
As the call for a boycott gains momentum, concerns arise regarding its potential impact on Black-owned businesses affiliated with Target. Owners of brands like The Doux and Lip Bar worry that a broad consumer withdrawal could jeopardize their sales. Nonetheless, the Minneapolis activists encourage supporters to buy directly from these businesses, ensuring that their financial support continues to benefit Black entrepreneurs.
Civil rights activists are urging a nationwide boycott of Target after the company announced it would scale back its diversity initiatives. This decision has led to expressions of disbelief from local leaders, who emphasized Target’s previous commitments post-Floyd’s death. As the boycott gains momentum, concerns are raised about its impact on Black-owned brands within Target stores.
The call for a boycott against Target highlights the tension between corporate policy shifts and community expectations. Activists are rallying in response to what they view as a betrayal of commitments to diversity and racial equity. The movement also emphasizes the importance of supporting local Black-owned businesses, ensuring that their impact is felt even as consumers withdraw support from one major retailer.
Original Source: www.pbs.org
