TARGET BOYCOTT CALL – Bryant, Sharpton FIGHT Back!

Daily Report June 02,2025

Dr. Jamal Bryant’s challenge to Target over its halted diversity initiatives creates a much-needed conversation about the intersection of values, politics, and commerce.

At a Glance

Pastor Jamal Bryant and Al Sharpton push for Target to reinstate DEI programs.
The duo urges a boycott due to Target’s change in direction under conservative influence.
Target previously halted LGBTQ-themed children’s clothing in June 2024.
Florida’s Attorney General filed a lawsuit against Target over LGBTQ activism investor deception claims.
Sharpton discusses election-influenced company policy changes.

Dr. Jamal Bryant and Al Sharpton’s DEI Stance

Pastor Jamal Bryant, known for his liberal views, opposes Target’s retreat from enforcing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Together with Rev. Al Sharpton, Bryant calls for black communities to boycott Target. They argue this move is essential for maintaining accountability and pressuring the retailer to embrace DEI values. Bryant’s disagreement stems from his belief that DEI initiatives support the empowerment of black communities and should not be dismissed as mere cultural trends.

Sharpton points out that the company has bent to conservative pressures, especially after earlier controversies over Pride-themed items aimed at children. Bryant seeks to counter what he views as retrograde steps against progress in social equity. His call for a boycott serves as a visible manifestation of this resistance, shining a spotlight on socio-cultural issues that transcend mere consumer choices.

The Pressure on Target: Financial and Social

Target initially faced backlash in 2023 due to its LGBTQ-themed children’s apparel, causing many conservatives to take action and boycott the store. This fiscal pressure on Target resulted in its decision to stop such sales in June 2024, with an eye on restoring its marketing to more neutral ground. Florida’s Attorney General has filed a lawsuit against Target, charging them with misleading investors regarding DEI and ESG policies. Target’s shares took a significant hit due to the controversies surrounding its merchandising strategies.

“very constructive and candid” – Al Sharpton.

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Target’s CEO, Brian Cornell, voiced a subtle agreement with Bryant’s DEI philosophy in past communications. Earlier, Cornell played a role in advocating for Pride-themed merchandise, seeing it as beneficial for broader social good. Debates about corporate responsibility and shareholders’ interests come into play when discussing the rollback of these programs. Rev. Al Sharpton’s meeting with Cornell, characterized as “very constructive and candid,” points to continued discussions about these critical issues.

The Political Implications of Corporate DEI Policies

Sharpton criticizes companies that abruptly pivot their DEI stances, particularly when such shifts align with election outcomes. He argues that corporate commitments to fairness should be stable and not change as per electoral winds. Bryant’s organized Target fast for Lent becomes another form of protest aimed at reversing what he sees as opportunistic corporate policy adjustments. Sharpton and Bryant continue to push their narrative unapologetically, offering a counter-position to the conservative voices driving recent policy shifts.

“You can’t have an election come and all of a sudden, change your old positions.” – Al Sharpton.

Bryant’s counter-boycott spotlights larger debates on balancing consumer preferences and corporate social responsibilities. As the conversation around these topics continues to unfold, both sides remain vigilant, acknowledging that the outcomes may influence not only corporate policies but societal norms as well.