Target facing backlash over rolling back DEI initiatives

(CNN, KYMA/KECY) - Dozens of Fortune 500 companies have recently backtracked on diversity, equity and inclusion programs (DEI) in response to conservative court decisions, but none has seen as much backlash as Target.

According to data from the analytics firm Placer AI, foot traffic at Target stores have declined for 10 consecutive weeks, and more than 200,000 people participated in a nationwide boycott against the retailer.

Target says it would eliminate hiring goals for minority employees and an executive committee focused on racial justice and make other changes to its diversity initiatives.

DEI supporters have reacted with fierce blowback; protesting Target's decision with some even calling the company's actions a betrayal.