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Target CEO to Meet Rev. Al Sharpton Over DEI Rollback as Boycott Threat Looms

Brian Cornell seeks to address civil rights concerns after Target's diversity policy reversal, with declining foot traffic and potential boycott at stake.

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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

  • Target CEO Brian Cornell has scheduled a meeting with Rev. Al Sharpton in New York to discuss the company's rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
  • The meeting follows Target's January decision to end DEI goals, halt external reporting, and stop sourcing from Black- and minority-owned businesses, which prompted backlash from civil rights groups.
  • Sharpton has warned that he may call for a formal boycott if Target does not reaffirm its commitment to the Black community and Black-owned businesses.
  • Target has experienced 10 consecutive weeks of year-over-year foot traffic declines since late January, coinciding with public criticism and consumer boycotts over its DEI policy changes.
  • The meeting reflects broader tensions as corporations face pressure from both civil rights advocates and conservative activists over the future of DEI programs.