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 declared 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 disclosed in January that it would phase out a handful of DEI initiatives including a operation 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 leadership and schools 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 revealed 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 declaration Wednesday Target announced we have an ongoing commitment to creating a welcoming circumstances for all unit members guests and suppliers It s core to how we patronage and grow our business the company stated 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