Target Looks for Love in All the Wrong Places as Black Leaders Reject Corporate Spin

July 23, 2025

Target is facing mounting backlash after quietly withdrawing from its $2. 1 billion diversity, equity, and inclusion pledge made following George Floyd's murder. The company is experiencing declining sales and increasing boycotts led by civil rights activists who condemn Target for abandoning Black communities while simultaneously funding prosecutorial strategies targeting Black youth.

Who is affected

Black communities previously promised support through Target's $2.1 billion diversity pledge
Black youth allegedly targeted by Target-funded prosecutorial strategies
Black-owned media outlets being bypassed by Target's communications
Progressive consumers, particularly women, who feel betrayed by Target's actions
Black business owners who were to benefit from expanded brand opportunities
Target itself (facing declining sales, foot traffic, and boycotts)

What action is being taken

Civil rights attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong and others launched a boycott on February 1 with a press conference at Target's global headquarters
Pastor Jamal Bryant is leading an ongoing "Target Fast" protest movement
Activists including Tamika D. Mallory and Nina Turner are urging people to avoid Target installations at events like Essence Festival
Rev. Jesse Jackson and clergy in Chicago are protesting outside Target stores
The National Newspaper Publishers Association is attempting to engage with Target
Target is pursuing celebrity collaborations and partnerships instead of addressing boycott demands

Why it matters

Target's retreat from its $2.1 billion diversity commitment represents a significant pullback from promised support to Black communities and businesses
The boycott highlights tensions between corporate diversity initiatives and political pressures
Target is accused of complicity in mass incarceration and systemic targeting of Black youth, described as "a civil and human rights crisis"
The situation demonstrates how economic pressure through boycotts can be used as leverage for social change
Target's approach of celebrity partnerships instead of direct community engagement is seen as an attempt to distract rather than address underlying issues
The company's failure to engage with Black-owned media outlets undermines trusted voices in affected communities

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint