STREAM EXCLUSIVE ORIGINALS

Target Scales Back DEI Programs Amid Rising Political Pressures

Following conservative backlash and shifting priorities, Target halts DEI programs introduced after George Floyd’s murder.

Target is the latest major corporation to roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, joining a growing list of companies scaling back such commitments in response to political and societal pressures.

In a memo sent to employees on Friday, the retail giant announced that it would dissolve its three-year DEI goals, cease reporting to external diversity-focused organizations like the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index, and discontinue programs supporting Black-and minority-owned businesses, CNBC reports

Kiera Fernandez, Target’s Chief Community Impact and Equity Officer, framed the move as part of a broader strategic shift. “Many years of data, insights, listening, and learning have been shaping this next chapter in our strategy,” she wrote. “As a retailer that serves millions of consumers every day, we understand the importance of staying in step with the evolving external landscape.”

The decision aligns with a broader corporate trend, with companies such as Walmart, McDonald’s, and Meta also scaling back DEI efforts. Some cite the Supreme Court’s affirmative action ruling as a factor, while others face pressure from conservative activists and stakeholders.  

RELATED: Trump Ends Federal Diversity Programs, Targets DEI in Bold Executive Order

Recently, this trend has gained momentum following executive orders from President Donald Trump, which dismantled federal DEI programs.

Target’s announcement marks a significant departure from its post-2020 commitments, which were amplified after the murder of George Floyd near its Minneapolis headquarters. 

Then-CEO Brian Cornell described Floyd’s death as a catalyst for the company’s renewed focus on equity. “That could have been one of my Target team members,” Cornell said at the time. 

The retailer ultimately pledged to increase Black representation in its workforce, invest $2 billion in Black-owned businesses by 2025, and donate $10 million to social justice causes.

Latest News

Subscribe for BET Updates

Provide your email address to receive our newsletter.


By clicking Subscribe, you confirm that you have read and agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge our Privacy Policy. You also agree to receive marketing communications, updates, special offers (including partner offers) and other information from BET and the Paramount family of companies. You understand that you can unsubscribe at any time.