Fallout following Target rolling back DEI goals
MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) - Just days after President Donald Trump's executive order ending federal Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, retailers are following suit. Target, with headquarters based in Minneapolis, is one of the companies that has announced it is changing course and ending its DEI goals.
The move has a Minneapolis City Council member asking shoppers to boycott the retailer.
What they're saying
There has been a lot of reaction to Target's announcement. The 9th Ward Council member is urging people to support small businesses instead.
In a statement posted to social media, Minneapolis City Council member Jason Chavez wrote, "It's disappointing that Target Corporation, based in Minneapolis, decided to roll back and ultimately conclude its diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. I urge everyone to consider supporting small businesses and family-owned grocery stores in our community instead."
What other companies are doing
Target is one of several retailers announcing they are rolling back or ending DEI programs. Target Corporation joined some of the largest brands in the country, including Walmart, Amazon, and McDonald's.
Still, other major corporations, including Costco, Apple, and J.P. Morgan are defending DEI policies.
What's next
Target announced key actions and changes that will be implemented throughout 2025, including ending the three-year diversity, equity and inclusion goals, stopping all external diversity-focused surveys, and evolving "Supplier Diversity" team to "Supplier Engagement."
These actions are a part of the corporation's new "Belonging at the Bullseye" strategy. In its fact sheet, Target said they "remain focused on driving our business by creating a sense of belonging for our team, guests and communities through a commitment to inclusion. Belonging for all is an essential part of our team and culture, helping fuel consumer relevance and business results."
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