A pastor in Atlanta is calling for a 40-day boycott of Target due to its decision to phase out diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Dr. Jamal Bryant wants 100,000 people to sign a petition and stop shopping at the store.
Target’s move comes after years of progress on DEI goals, including increasing representation of women and minority groups in leadership positions. The company had set these goals three years ago but has since decided to end them.
Bryant says Target is “spitting in the face” of Black people with its decision. He claims that the company is trying to appease a president who thinks he’s king. Bryant wants people to boycott the company and sell their shares, effectively cutting off millions of dollars spent by Black consumers every month.
However, the company says that its DEI decisions are part of a larger strategy to create inclusive work environments. The current chief community impact and equity officer, Kiera Fernandez, wrote in a memo that many years of data and listening have shaped this new chapter in Target’s approach.
As part of the boycott, Bryant has suggested an alternative – supporting Black-owned businesses through a digital directory provided by the National Black Chamber of Commerce.
Source: https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/pastor-jamal-bryant-boycott-target-dei-policy