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Minnesota Residents and Civil Rights Leaders Call for Target Boycott Over DEI Backsliding

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January 31, 2025

TLDR: Dr. Nii-Quartelai interviews Nekima Levy Armstrong about a call for nationwide boycott of Target stores by Minnesota residents.

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In this episode of "A More Perfect Union" on KBLA Talk 1580, Dr. Nick Cordolai-Corte discusses the growing calls for a nationwide boycott of Target stores amid concerns over the company’s alleged backsliding on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Joined by civil rights attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong, the episode delves deep into the implications of these actions and what they mean for communities of color in Minnesota and beyond.

Background of the Boycott

  • Rising Discontent: Minnesota residents are expressing outrage over Target’s decision to roll back its DEI commitments, which had been strengthened in the wake of George Floyd’s murder.
  • Historical Context: Target had established a reputation as a supporter of racial justice and diversity initiatives, but its recent changes are seen as a betrayal by many consumers who felt valued and supported by the brand.
  • Civil Rights at Stake: The conversation begins by highlighting the importance of continued advocacy for racial justice, especially considering Target's location in Minneapolis, a city that became a focal point for the Black Lives Matter movement.

Key Insights from Nekima Levy Armstrong

Reasons for the Boycott

  • Economic Impact: Armstrong emphasizes that the boycott aims to send a clear message: black consumers will not support businesses that do not visibly support them. The move to boycott is seen as both a moral and economic action.
  • Direct Accountability: By choosing to boycott Target, consumers aim to hold the retailer accountable for its actions instead of impacting black-owned brands that sell their products there. Armstrong encourages supporters to purchase directly from these brands instead.

Mixed History of Target's DEI Initiatives

  • Surveillance and Inequality: Despite its attempts to support diversity, Target has faced scrutiny for its history involving surveillance programs that disproportionately affect people of color.
  • Community Relations: Armstrong points out that Target’s actions should be viewed within the broader context of its relationship with black communities and the potential consequences of their disengagement from DEI commitments.

The Role of Leadership and Accountability

  • Political Context: The episode touches on legislation and remarks made by former President Trump regarding DEI, framing the debate around Target’s actions as part of a broader national conversation about race and equality.
  • Call to Action: Empowering listeners to take collective action is emphasized, as Armstrong notes the historical precedent set during the Montgomery Bus Boycott and encourages grassroots mobilization against companies that fail to uphold their commitments.

Public Reactions and Discussions

Community Response

  • Individuals Show Solidarity: Listeners share their experiences and commit to the boycott, reiterating that they will not support businesses that do not value their patronage.
  • Seeking Alternatives: The discussion encourages supporting local and black-owned businesses that will benefit more from direct consumer engagement without intermediaries like Target.

Engagement Opportunities

  • Support Black Businesses: Armstrong urges individuals to find direct ways to support black entrepreneurs and local businesses, particularly during significant periods like Black History Month.
  • Organizational Partnerships: The Racial Justice Network is highlighted as a key organization in Minnesota mobilizing efforts for the boycott and other related initiatives.

Conclusion

This episode brings to the forefront critical discussions surrounding corporate accountability and the social responsibility of businesses towards marginal communities. As listeners digest the implications of Target's recent decisions, they are also encouraged to reflect on their spending habits and support ethos moving forward. Armstrong emphasizes that collective action is necessary for true progress in racial equity. The conversation serves as a vivid reminder that consumer power remains a potent force in shaping corporate policies and practices.

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