In recent months, Target has faced significant backlash after revising its diversity, equity, and inclusion policies. The impact has been severe, with foot traffic declining for ten consecutive weeks and sales dropping in February. The company's stock is now at its lowest in four years. As a response, Target's CEO, Brian Cornell, has reached out to Al Sharpton to discuss their commitment to the Black community amid ongoing boycotts.

Sharpton, leader of the National Action Network, has emphasized the importance of consistency in corporate commitments, stating, “You can’t have an election come and all of a sudden, change your old positions.” He has warned that he could call for a boycott against Target if discussions don't yield positive results.

Target's recent changes, which included withdrawing from significant diversity initiatives, have drawn criticism, particularly since the company previously made strides to engage with Black entrepreneurs, especially after George Floyd's murder. Sharpton seeks assurance that Target will uphold its commitments to the Black community, asking pointedly, “Are you trying to say... everything’s fine now because the election changed? That’s insulting to us.”

As the situation evolves, it remains unclear what actions Sharpton may take after his meeting with Cornell, but the stakes for Target are undeniably high.
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