Target’s DEI Rollback: A Deeper Betrayal

Seen and Heard with Carlisa – Season 2, Episode 1

Episode Title:

Episode Summary: In this powerful season premiere, Carlisa dives into the recent rollback of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives at Target and the broader implications for Black and Brown communities. She explores why this decision stings more than others, drawing parallels to personal experiences of exclusion and betrayal. With a critical lens, she discusses the gaslighting of marginalized communities, the performative nature of corporate DEI efforts, and the deeper systemic issues at play.

Carlisa also highlights the Black and Brown-owned brands impacted by this decision. She also brings in key research from a 2024 Yahoo Finance study, which found that over 76% of Chief Diversity Officers were White, while just under 4% were Black, underscoring the challenges of genuine corporate commitment to diversity.

Through her signature blend of personal storytelling and sharp analysis, Carlisa challenges listeners to think critically about where they spend their dollars, how corporations manipulate consumer trust, and what true accountability looks like.

Key Takeaways:

• Target’s rollback of DEI initiatives signals a deeper betrayal for Black and Brown communities who once felt seen and prioritized.

• The company leveraged Black-owned brands and designers to gain our trust and dollars, only to backtrack when it became inconvenient.

• Corporate DEI efforts are often performative, as evidenced by the 2024 Yahoo Finance study showing the overwhelming whiteness of DEI leadership.

• Consumers hold power in deciding where to spend their money and can choose to support Black-owned businesses directly.

• This moment serves as a reminder that true allyship requires consistency, not just convenience.

Listener Engagement: Carlisa invites listeners to reflect and share their thoughts:

• How do you feel about Target’s decision?

• What steps are you taking moving forward in your purchasing habits?

• Have you experienced similar betrayals in other spaces where you once felt included?

Join the conversation on Threads at @CarlisaNeal and let’s discuss.

Call to Action: If this episode resonated with you, be sure to share it with your community, leave a review, and subscribe for future episodes where we continue to have these real and necessary conversations.