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2mo ago

Target Faces 40-Day Boycott Over Rollback of Diversity Initiatives

The retailer's decision to end its DEI program has sparked consumer backlash, with activists calling for economic resistance to corporate policies seen as unjust.

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In an aerial view, a customer enters a Target store on February 28, 2025, in Sausalito, California. The People's Union USA, a grassroots group, is calling for an "economic boycott" on Friday and is urging Americans not to shop for 24 hours. The boycott follows a rollback of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives at several companies.

Overview

  • Target's rollback of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) program has led to a 40-day boycott organized by activist Rev. Jamal Bryant, coinciding with Lent.
  • The company cited an 'evolving external landscape' for ending its DEI initiatives, including the Racial Equity Action and Change program, which pledged $2 billion investment in Black-owned businesses by 2025.
  • The boycott follows a nationwide 'economic blackout' on February 28, during which Target experienced an 11% drop in store traffic and a 9% decline in online visits.
  • Critics argue the rollback reflects broader corporate and governmental pressure, with President Trump's administration targeting DEI initiatives as discriminatory and threatening investigations.
  • Target's recent earnings report shows declining sales and warns of potential further financial pressures, compounded by consumer backlash and economic factors like tariffs.