The Daily Populous Friday January 31st, 2025 morning edition
Authored by cbsnews.com and submitted by johnboy43214321

MINNEAPOLIS — Activists are calling for a nationwide boycott of Target stores following the company's decision to roll back its diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

The company announced on Jan. 24 that it would end its DEI goals that were previously set to increase Black employees' representation and advancement, improve Black shoppers' experiences and promote Black-owned businesses. They are also pulling back on efforts to include hiring and promoting women, minorities, LGBTQ+ people and veterans.

Activists held a press conference at Target headquarters in downtown Minneapolis Thursday morning.

"For decades, Target has benefitted from nearly unfettered support from Minnesota residents, families and consumers all around the country. In the past, Target was known for its diversity initiatives and reputation for supporting diverse communities," said civil rights attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong. "Now Target has shown its true face by deciding to roll back its focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion by putting profits and politics over people."

Armstrong encouraged Minnesotans to start boycotting Target stores indefinitely starting Saturday, Feb. 1.

"We do not believe it is a coincidence that Target made this decision after the holiday shopping season and roughly one week before the start of Black History Month," said Monique Cullars-Doty, co-founder of Black Lives Matter Minnesota.

Speakers at Thursday's event made two requests: for employees to speak up and for shoppers to shop elsewhere.

The fact Target actually increased DEI efforts after George Floyd's murder is making the company's decision that much more unbelievable for people like Jaylani Hussein, spokesperson for CAIR-MN.

"If you would have told me in those summers and months to come here today, talking about Target reversing its decision, I would personally say I couldn't believe it," said Hussein. He speculated that Target would reverse course by the end of February, which is Black History Month.

On the other side of the boycott, Black business owners like Tabitha Brown — who sells kitchenware and has had her products highlighted in Target stores under the company's previous DEI initiatives — said in an Instagram video that she understands the anger. However, she asked for those who may consider a boycott to reconsider.

"If we all decide to boycott and be like 'no we're not spending no money at these organizations,'" said Brown. "So many of us will be affected and our sales would drop our business would be hurt."

"We remain focused on driving our business by creating a sense of belonging for our team, guests and communities through a commitment to inclusion," Target said in its initial statement explaining the rollback. "Belonging for all is an essential part of our team and culture, helping fuel consumer relevance and business results."

The decision raised questions about the future of Target's philanthropic commitments. A company spokesperson told the Associated Press that the "recent update does not impact Target Foundation giving" but added that, "as always, the foundation will continue to evaluate how it best supports organizations, coalitions and networks."

Shortly after Target's announcement, Twin Cities Pride, a longtime partner, said the company would not be welcome at this year's Pride celebration and renounced $50,000 in funding. Less than 24 hours later, Twin Cities Pride said community donations had filled the gap.

BadAsBroccoli on January 30th, 2025 at 23:39 UTC »

Target's getting hit from both sides. Conservatives boycotted them over their LGBTQ pride merch.

What's a greedy corporation supposed to do? /s

ProudnotLoud on January 30th, 2025 at 22:09 UTC »

Costco seems to be figuring out how to make it work. I'd rather keep my money there then.

Khaysis on January 30th, 2025 at 22:05 UTC »

Turns out all that rainbow capitalism was just for money. Who woulda thunk?