NEW YORK (AP) – Target CEO plans to meet with Rev. Al Sharpton this week, who encourages consumers to avoid using U.S. retailers that expand their diversity, equity and inclusion programs.
A spokesman for the National Action Network confirmed Thursday that Sharpton plans to meet with New York’s goal CEO Brian Cornell but declined to provide any details about the meeting, the first time CNBC reported.
The target spokesperson was unable to comment immediately.
Target is one of many companies including Walmart, Amazon and Pepsi, which eliminate policies and programs designed to strengthen diversity among employees and reduce discrimination against minorities, women and LGBTQ+ people.
After returning to the White House in January, President Donald Trump moved to the federal government to end Dei Programs within. He warned schools to do the same thing or risk losing federal funds.
Earlier this month, Sharpton gave Pepsi three weeks to meet him (or suffered a boycott) to discuss reversing the company’s recent cancellation of its DEI plan. Sharpton reported on Monday that Pepsi leaders agreed to meet with National Action Network representatives this week.
Target announced on January 24 that it will conclude its set DEI goals to increase representation and advancement of black employees, improve the experience of black shoppers and promote black-owned businesses. The company also said it plans to stop submitting external diversity survey reports.
It also “further evaluates our company partnerships to ensure they are directly connected to our growth roadmap,” according to a memo posted on its website.
Many retailers’ boycotts are the retailers withdrawn on Dei. Some boycotts the goal of zeroing.
Pastor Jamal Bryant, an Atlanta-area pastor, organized a website called Targetfast.org, which recruited 40-day Christian Target Boycott, which started on March 5, which marked the beginning of Lent Wednesday. Other faith leaders acknowledged the protest.
Lent is over this week as Easter Sunday takes place.
