Jamal Bryant Calls for Full Boycott of Target Stores

ATLANTA (AP) — The Rev. Jamal Bryant, pastor of a Georgia megachurch, is urging supporters to continue a nationwide boycott of Target stores. He announced this week that the Minneapolis-based retailer has not fulfilled the demands from the protest initiative aimed at promoting diversity.

Bryant, the pastor of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Stonecrest, Georgia, stated that Target has yet to commit to restoring diversity, equity, and inclusion principles while also pledging funds to Black-owned businesses and banks. These demands have become central to the boycott movement.

In January, Target proclaimed its commitment to diversity initiatives, including support programs designed to help Black employees and promote Black-owned businesses. Despite this, Bryant and other protestors believe Target’s actions have fallen short.

The 40-day boycott aligns with the beginning of Lent, as it kicked off on March 5, 2025. Bryant emphasized, “Until Target comes to the table with serious, concrete proposals to meet our four demands, we will remain in this posture. Silence and delay are no longer acceptable.”

In a response to Bryant’s statements, Target reiterated its commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all team members and customers. The company indicated that it remains focused on supporting organizations that strengthen their 2,000 communities across the U.S.

Target, which employs more than 400,000 people nationwide, expressed that diversity and community support are core to its business strategy, adding that they are dedicated to fostering opportunities for everyone.