Minnesota Activists Renew Push for Target Boycott

Following a recent drop in sales for the Minneapolis-based retailer, local community activists are intensifying their call for shoppers to boycott Target this holiday season. The renewed push comes after Target reported its third consecutive quarterly sales decline, with activists linking the slump to their ongoing efforts.

The boycott originated in late January after Target announced changes to its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs. These initiatives, many of which were implemented in the wake of George Floyd’s murder, sparked significant backlash from advocates who believe the company is backtracking on its commitments.

Understanding the Boycott’s Roots and Impact

The call to action by local organizers stems from Target’s shift in DEI policies. Civil rights attorney and organizer Nekima Levy Armstrong articulated the sentiment at a recent news conference, stating, “We say that Target’s actions are not acceptable and they will not receive our dollars as a response.” This stance highlights a principled opposition to what activists perceive as a withdrawal from vital diversity efforts.

Target’s Sales Slump and Activist Claims

Target’s third-quarter earnings report revealed a 2.7% slide in store sales, marking the third straight quarterly decline. The company also anticipates fewer sales through the critical holiday season. While Target officials did not explicitly mention the boycott during their earnings call, activists are confident their efforts are making a difference. Jaylani Hussein, executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations in Minnesota, emphasized, “Many of us love Target… But when Target refuses to see us, it is time for us to move away from that company.”

Target’s Position and Future Outlook

In response to inquiries from WCCO, Target reaffirmed its “long-standing commitment to creating growth and opportunity for all.” The company cited significant investments, including $2 billion in Black-owned businesses and $100 million in Black-led community organizations. Rick Gomez, Target’s chief commercial officer, noted that customers are “stretching budgets” and “spending where it matters most,” indicating broader economic pressures on consumer spending.

Looking ahead, Target plans a substantial $1 billion investment in new stores and remodels, alongside recent price reductions on essential grocery items. Despite these strategic moves, activists vow to maintain the boycott until Target reverses course on its DEI policy changes, setting the stage for continued pressure throughout the holiday shopping period.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why are activists calling for a boycott of Target?
  Activists are protesting Target’s decision to change its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, which they view as a rollback of commitments made after the murder of George Floyd.
• Who are the main figures behind the renewed boycott push?
  Key organizers include civil rights attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong and Jaylani Hussein, executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations in Minnesota.
• Has the boycott impacted Target’s sales?
  Target recently reported a 2.7% slide in store sales for the third quarter, marking its third straight quarterly decline. Activists believe their boycott efforts are a contributing factor to these financial results.
• How is Target responding to these concerns and market changes?
  Target states it is committed to investing in Black-owned businesses ($2 billion) and Black-led community organizations ($100 million). They also plan a $1 billion investment in new stores and remodels, alongside cutting prices on essential items.
• What can local shoppers expect moving forward?
  Activists are determined to continue the boycott through the holiday season and beyond until Target reverses its DEI policy changes, meaning the debate over the retailer’s practices will likely remain a prominent local issue.

As the holiday shopping season unfolds, local consumers face a choice: to support Target’s efforts to adapt to economic conditions and invest in community, or to stand with activists pressing for a reversal on diversity and inclusion policies.

Minnesota Activists Renew Push for Target Boycott