Target CEO Brian Cornell met with the Rev. Al Sharpton this week in New York following the retailer's decision to scale back its diversity, equity and inclusion programs. The meeting addresses concerns raised by civil rights groups.
Sharpton confirmed the meeting, stating it was constructive. He has supported others who urged shoppers to avoid U.S. retailers that changed their DEI initiatives.
Target in January announced it would end certain DEI goals set to boost Black employee representation and advancement. The company also said it would stop submitting information for outside diversity surveys. A company memo noted a plan to re-evaluate corporate partnerships to ensure they align with a roadmap for growth.
Target's actions come as other companies, including Walmart, Amazon and PepsiCo, have also adjusted their DEI policies. These corporate changes coincide with a political climate where DEI programs within the federal government face pressure.
Sharpton recently gave PepsiCo a deadline to meet regarding its own DEI changes, or face a potential boycott. PepsiCo leaders agreed to meet with Sharpton's organization this week.
Following Target's announcement, a number of boycotts were launched targeting the retailer. An Atlanta-area pastor, Rev. Jamal Bryant, started a 40-day Target boycott that began in early March.
Data indicates foot traffic at Target stores started to slow down following the January announcement regarding DEI. Visits declined year over year for ten straight weeks starting Jan. 27. Retailers have been bracing for potential blowback related to DEI discussions.
Sharpton is consulting with his organization's board following the meeting with Target's chief executive. He has indicated he would consider calling for a boycott if the company does not confirm a commitment to the Black community and pledge to work with and invest in Black-owned businesses.
In his meeting with Cornell, Sharpton planned to ask about commitments made after the 2020 events in Target's hometown. Cornell stated in 2021 that George Floyd's death motivated him and the company to address racial inequities.
Target faces challenges beyond the DEI discussion, including issues with having the wrong inventory and competition. Shoppers are watching their spending, impacting sales across the retail sector.