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Target and Al Sharpton Discuss DEI Rollback in 'Constructive' Meeting

Target CEO Brian Cornell met with Rev. Al Sharpton to address concerns over the company's retreat from diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, as civil rights leaders weigh next steps.

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FILE - A Target logo is displayed outside of a store location, Dec. 20, 2022, in Westwood, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne, File)

Overview

  • Rev. Al Sharpton described his meeting with Target CEO Brian Cornell as 'very constructive and candid,' following the retailer's rollback of DEI programs earlier this year.
  • Sharpton plans to consult with allies, including Rev. Jamal Bryant, before deciding whether to escalate or end boycott efforts targeting Target.
  • Target's January decision to end its three-year DEI goals and supplier diversity initiatives has led to ten consecutive weeks of declining foot traffic, according to Placer.ai data.
  • The rollback aligns with a broader trend among corporations, including Walmart and McDonald’s, scaling back DEI initiatives amid political and economic pressures.
  • Target's response to the backlash could influence its future relationship with civil rights organizations and its standing with Black consumers and minority-owned businesses.