
Is Target’s DEI Shift a Smart Business Move or Politics at Play?
02/15/25 • 32 min
Target’s latest DEI moves are stirring up conversation—are they reacting to political pressure or making a strategic business play? We break down the end of their three-year DEI goals, the impact of past controversies (hello, Pride Month backlash), and what it all means for the brand’s future.
We also explore how big brands can make DEI more than just a corporate checkbox, the influence of Black consumer spending, and fresh ideas like Blackout Week. Tune in for a no-nonsense, insightful chat on what’s next for corporate DEI.
Let me know if you’d like any more refinements!
Stay With Us
- Watch and Subscribe to The E Word on YouTube.
- Follow Karen on LinkedIn and learn more at Colossal Work.
- Follow Brittany on LinkedIn and learn more at BND Consulting Group.
Target’s latest DEI moves are stirring up conversation—are they reacting to political pressure or making a strategic business play? We break down the end of their three-year DEI goals, the impact of past controversies (hello, Pride Month backlash), and what it all means for the brand’s future.
We also explore how big brands can make DEI more than just a corporate checkbox, the influence of Black consumer spending, and fresh ideas like Blackout Week. Tune in for a no-nonsense, insightful chat on what’s next for corporate DEI.
Let me know if you’d like any more refinements!
Stay With Us
- Watch and Subscribe to The E Word on YouTube.
- Follow Karen on LinkedIn and learn more at Colossal Work.
- Follow Brittany on LinkedIn and learn more at BND Consulting Group.
Previous Episode

Wayment! McDonald’s Always Had Inclusion as Its Secret Sauce
Contrary to the headlines, McDonald's isn’t abandoning its DEI principles—it’s been blending them into its secret sauce all along.
In this episode, we dig beneath the headlines to explore McDonald's purpose and impact report, highlighting what the global giant is getting right, where we disagree and see a higher opportunity for its actions, and why its evolution could light the way for other organizations. From raising the bar on food quality to empowering employees and fostering community connections, McDonald’s has the chance to lead by example and prove that inclusion is a key ingredient for success. Karen and Brittany talk about HOW!
CONTINUED EDUCATION
- McDonald's Purpose & Impact Report
- McDonald's Didn't Roll Back Their DEI Efforts, They Evolved Them
- McDonald’s cools on DEI, shifts to ‘global inclusion’
Stay With Us
- Watch and Subscribe to The E Word on YouTube.
- Follow Karen on LinkedIn and learn more at Colossal Work.
- Follow Brittany on LinkedIn and learn more at BND Consulting Group.
Next Episode

Ever found yourself in a heated debate with a loved one over political beliefs?
We're unpacking a gripping Reddit post about a woman questioning her reaction to her fiancé’s Republican views on the federal financial aid freeze. Their story opens up a broader conversation on government subsidies, military service benefits, and how to navigate political differences in relationships.
We also dive into deep-seated biases within the military, the role of education and financial aid in creating opportunity, and the dangers of hyper-individuality. With generational shifts pushing big conversations into text threads, we explore the importance of empathy, collaboration, and systemic solutions for a more inclusive society.
Stay With Us
- Watch and Subscribe to The E Word on YouTube.
- Follow Karen on LinkedIn and learn more at Colossal Work.
- Follow Brittany on LinkedIn and learn more at BND Consulting Group.
The E Word - Is Target’s DEI Shift a Smart Business Move or Politics at Play?
Transcript
We're back , we're back , we're back on the E-Word . Hi , Brittany .
Brittany S. HaleHi Karen , how are you ?
Karen McFarlaneHanging in there . You know , every day is a little bit of drama in this new world we live in , but you know hanging in there
Karen McFarlaneIf you like this episode you’ll love
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