Black consumers put on notice amid DEI rollbacks

Business & Economy

The Big Story

Black consumers put on notice amid DEI rollbacks

The NAACP is urging Black Americans to refrain from shopping at retailers that have stepped back from diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs.

The advisory lists companies that have recommitted to DEI in recent weeks — such as Delta Air Lines, Apple and Ben & Jerry’s — while also highlighting major corporations that have dismantled their programs.

Despite backlash from civil rights organizations, companies including McDonald’s, Target, Walmart, Amazon and Tractor Supply have all ended or rolled back their DEI promises, many of which were made in the wake of social unrest in 2020.

In its advisory, the NAACP argues the rollbacks “reinforce historical barriers to progress under the guise of protecting “meritocracy.’”

”Many corporations continue to profit from Black dollars while simultaneously undermining commitments of diversity, equity, and inclusion,” the advisory said. “These rollbacks not only harm Black communities, professionals, and entrepreneurs but also erode the progress made toward creating equitable economic and social systems.”

The advisory calls for Black Americans to support businesses and organizations that maintain and even expand DEI commitments and prioritize investment in Black communities; support Black-owned businesses; and call out corporations that have abandoned DEI initiatives and demand transparency in their practices.

The Hill's Cheyanne Daniels has more here.

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