Target Retreats from Twin Cities Pride After DEI Rollback

Target has announced it will no longer participate in the Twin Cities Pride festival or parade following its decision to roll back its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Twin Cities Pride officials expressed deep disappointment, emphasizing the importance of continued discussions regarding the impact this decision has on the LGBTQ+ community and Target employees. The company, which previously promoted a range of DEI goals aimed at hiring and supporting diverse groups, stated that it would conclude such initiatives in light of recent pressures from conservative activists and the White House. Local leaders and organizations have criticized Target's actions, with some urging support for small, family-owned businesses instead. This move has been interpreted by some as an alignment with the politics of exclusion that have been prevalent since Donald Trump's presidency. Target's commitment to inclusivity is now being questioned after years of advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and diversity.