Feb 22, 2025 Story by: Editor
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — Florida’s newly appointed attorney general has filed a federal lawsuit against Target, alleging that the retail giant “misled investors” by promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, which later sparked backlash and led to financial losses for shareholders.
Target, once known for its strong advocacy for Black and LGBTQ individuals, recently scaled back its DEI programs. In 2023, the company’s decision to introduce LGBTQ+ merchandise for Pride Month angered some shoppers, leading to confrontations in stores.
Attorney General James Uthmeier filed the lawsuit in Fort Myers, Florida, arguing that Target violated the Securities Exchange Act by failing to disclose “the known risks” associated with its DEI and Pride Month initiatives.
“Corporations that push radical leftist ideology at the expense of financial returns jeopardize the retirement security of Florida’s first responders and teachers,” Uthmeier stated. “My office will stridently pursue corporate reform so that companies get back to the business of doing business — not offensive political theatre.”
Uthmeier, recently appointed by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis, has vowed to use his legal authority to “champion an America-first agenda” and challenge what he refers to as “the left.”
Target has not yet responded to requests for comment.
In late January, the retailer announced plans to end a program designed to better serve Black employees, shoppers, and Black-owned businesses. The company, headquartered in Minneapolis, had expanded its DEI efforts following the police killing of George Floyd in 2020.
However, DEI policies have faced increasing opposition from conservative activists and the White House. Other major U.S. corporations, including Walmart, have also scaled back or discontinued their DEI commitments.
Earlier this month, Missouri’s attorney general filed a lawsuit against Starbucks, alleging that the coffee chain engaged in “systemic racial, sexual, and sexual orientation discrimination.” Starbucks has dismissed the claims as “inaccurate.” Source: US News
