Pastor calls for ‘full Target boycott’ over concerns about diversity, equity, inclusion

ATLANTA AP The pastor of a Georgia megachurch who led a nationwide -day fast boycott of Target stores over the retail chain s commitment to diversity initiatives is now calling for that effort to continue as a full Target boycott The Rev Jamal Bryant stated this week that the Minneapolis-based retailer has not met all of the boycott effort s demands Among them Restoring its commitment to diversity equity and inclusion principles and pledging money to Black-owned banks and businesses Target stated in January that it would phase out a handful of DEI initiatives including a project designed to help Black employees build meaningful careers and promote Black-owned businesses Conservative activists and President Donald Trump have sought to dismantle DEI policies in the federal executive and schools Related Articles Hotel residential buildings and concert venue planned around Ball Arena in Denver Colorado Auto Show starts while status of tariffs on foreign cars parts still unclear King Soopers contract talks continue amid leadership changes union lawsuit Skeptical Gov Jared Polis signs law blocking more grocery stores from selling hard liquor Daiso to open third Colorado store introducing its eco-friendly line Bryant is the pastor of one of the South s largest churches New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Stonecrest Georgia just outside Atlanta The -day fast of Target stores coincided with the beginning of Lent on March and other faith leaders endorsed the protest Until Target comes to the table with serious concrete proposals to meet our four demands we will remain in this posture Bryant declared on a website dedicated to the boycott effort Silence and delay are no longer acceptable he added Our communities deserve action not platitudes Our demands are not radical they are righteous reasonable and long overdue In a report Wednesday Target disclosed we have an ongoing commitment to creating a welcoming atmosphere for all gang members guests and suppliers It s core to how we backing and grow our business the company reported We remain focused on supporting organizations and creating opportunities for people in the communities where we live and operate Target operates nearly stores nationwide and employs more than people