In early 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14173, titled “Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity,” effectively terminating federal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. This directive has prompted significant reactions across various sectors, including retail, where several major companies have reevaluated or discontinued their DEI initiatives.
Impact on Retailers and Subsequent Boycotts
In response to the executive order, several prominent retailers have announced the cessation of their DEI programs:
• Target Corporation: Target has halted its Racial Equity Action and Change and Supplier Diversity programs, ceasing participation in external diversity surveys, including the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index.
• Walmart: Walmart has discontinued its “Reimagine Tomorrow” program, which aimed to promote diversity and inclusion within the company.
• Google: Google has removed certain cultural observances, such as Juneteenth and Martin Luther King Jr. Day, from its calendar, reflecting a broader shift in corporate DEI policies.
These policy changes have sparked public outcry, leading to organized boycotts and protests.
Boycott Initiatives and Dates
In response to the rollback of DEI policies, various groups have initiated boycott campaigns targeting companies that have discontinued their diversity programs.
• Nationwide Economic Blackout: The People’s Union has called for a 24-hour economic blackout on February 28, 2025, urging consumers to refrain from shopping at retailers that have rolled back DEI initiatives.
• Target Boycott: Activists have organized a boycott of Target, scheduled for March 15, 2025, in response to the company’s decision to end its DEI programs.
Legal and Social Implications
The executive order and subsequent corporate policy changes have raised legal and social concerns.
• Legal Challenges: The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has expressed concerns that the executive order may undo progress on diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, potentially creating new barriers to opportunity.
• Corporate Backlash: Some companies are resisting the rollback, choosing to maintain their DEI programs despite the executive order.
Conclusion
The intersection of presidential executive orders and corporate DEI policies has ignited significant public discourse and action. As companies navigate the evolving landscape of diversity and inclusion, consumer responses, including boycotts and protests, continue to shape the future of corporate responsibility and social equity.
