Target’s CEO Brian Cornell recently met with Reverend Al Sharpton to discuss growing calls for a boycott of the retail giant. This meeting happened after Sharpton made a strong public statement: "If an election determines your commitment to fairness, then fine, you have a right to withdraw from us, but then we have a right to withdraw from you.” His message was clear: companies that back away from promises of fairness and equality should not expect continued support from the Black community.
Sharpton told CNBC he wanted to find out if Target still stands by its earlier pledge to support Black-owned businesses and remain committed to the Black community. After the meeting, Rev. Sharpton posted on Instagram that their conversation was “very constructive and candid.” He also said he would update other leaders, including Pastor Jamal Bryant, on what was discussed.
However, not everyone was satisfied. Since the meeting, Pastor Bryant has spoken out, saying that although the 40-Day Target Fast has ended, Black consumers should still consider boycotting the store. According to him, Target has not taken any real steps to address the concerns raised or to prove its ongoing support for the community.