Minneapolis – Activists are asking for a boycott at the national level of target stores after the company decision To reverse your initiatives for diversity, equity and inclusion.
The company announced on January 24 that it would end with its objectives that would previously increase the representation and advance of black employees, improve the experiences of black buyers and promote black property companies. They are also retreating efforts to Include hiring and promotion of women, minorities, LGBTQ+ people and veterans.
The activists held a press conference at Target headquarters in the center of Minneapolis on Thursday morning.
“For decades, Target has benefited from the support almost without restrictions of the residents, families and consumers of Minnesota throughout the country. In the past, Target was known for his diversity initiatives and his reputation for supporting various communities,” he said The civil rights lawyer Nekima Levy Levy Ardsong. “Now Target has demonstrated his true face when deciding to restart his focus on diversity, equity and inclusion by putting profits and policies about people.”
Armstrong encouraged minnesotanos to start boycothing Target stores indefinitely from Saturday, February 1.
“We do not believe it is a coincidence that Target has made this decision after the Christmas shopping season and approximately one week before the beginning of the month of black history,” said Monique Culars-Doty, co-founder of Black Lives Matter Minnesota.
The speakers at the Thursday event made two requests: for employees to speak and for buyers to buy elsewhere.
“Many of us were stunned that goal, one of the companies that took a step forward in the murder of the Minneapolis Police to George Floyd and helped make the decision that they were going to invest more in diversity, equity and inclusion,” he said Armstrong. .
Jaylani Hussein, executive director of the Minnesota American-Islamic Relations Council, speculated that Target would reverse the course at the end of February, which is the month of black history.
“We continue to focus on promoting our business creating a sense of belonging for our team, guests and communities through a commitment to inclusion,” Target said in his initial statement explaining the reversal. “Belonging for all is an essential part of our team and culture, helping to boost the relevance of the consumer and commercial results.”
The decision raised questions about the future of Target’s philanthropic commitments. A company spokesman told The Associated Press that “recent update does not impact Target Foundation”, but added that “as always, the Foundation will continue to evaluate how organizations, coalitions and networks better support.”
Shortly after Target’s announcement, Twin Cities prideA partner for a long time, said the company would not be welcome in the celebration of this year’s pride and resigned from $ 50,000 in funds. Less than 24 hours later, Twin Cities Pride said community donations had filled space.
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