Target’s decision to retreat from its diversity efforts has sparked controversy, with civil rights leader Reverend Al Sharpton calling for a meeting with the company’s CEO, Brian Cornell. Sharpton described the meeting as “very constructive and candid” in a statement provided by the National Action Network.
The meeting comes amid calls from activists to boycott Target, which has seen reduced foot traffic over the past 10 weeks compared to the same period last year. The company had pulled back its DEI commitments in late January, sparking protests in Minneapolis.
Sharpton will inform his allies about the discussion and “go from there.” A Christian pastor, Rev. Dr. Jamal Bryant, organized a website called targetfast.org to recruit Christians for a 40-day boycott. Other faith leaders have endorsed the protest, which began on March 5 during Lent.
In response to criticism, Target shifted its supplier diversity programs to supplier engagement and concluded three-year DEI goals and initiatives in 2025. However, Sharpton’s meeting with Cornell suggests that the company is seeking to address concerns about its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Source: https://www.startribune.com/al-sharpton-target-ceo-brian-cornell-meeting-dei-diversity-pullback-boycott/601333186