Although several companies have cut or scaled back DEI programs, Target's reversal on DEI seemed to draw the greatest outrage.

Target is ending its DEI program this year, the latest corporation to step away from such policies in the face of scrutiny from conservative groups.

Minneapolis-based Target Corp. is No. 7 on The PG 100, Progressive Grocer’s 2024 list of the top food and consumables retailers in North America, with nearly 2,000 locations. Walmart U.S. is No. 1 on The PG 100, while Costco is No. 3. PG also included all three companies on its Retailers of the Century list.

Civil rights activists gathered outside the Minneapolis headquarters of Target Corp. on Thursday to call for a boycott of the retailing giant over its decision to roll back its diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.