Target Scales Back DEI Efforts, Halts Support For Black Businesses

Target Scales Back DEI Efforts, Halts Support For Black Businesses

Target announced Friday it is rolling back diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, joining a growing list of companies retreating from such programs.

In a memo to employees, the Minneapolis-based retailer stated it would end its three-year DEI goals and discontinue reporting to external diversity-focused groups, including the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index. The company also plans to halt a program aimed at increasing products from Black- and minority-owned businesses.

The move signals a significant shift in Target’s approach to DEI, which previously emphasized aligning its workforce and merchandise with its customer base. This retreat reflects broader trends in corporate America, where some companies are scaling back similar programs amidst changing political, social, and economic pressures.

The announcement underscores the challenges of balancing DEI commitments with evolving business priorities and public scrutiny.

TJB Crew, are you surprised?