Target is ending its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, including its Racial Equity Action and Change (REACH) initiatives, following pressure from an executive order issued by President Donald Trump.

This move makes Target the latest company to pull back on policies aimed at increasing racial and ethnic representation in the workplace.

The decision has sparked backlash on social media, with critics arguing it harms diversity in a company with a diverse customer base, while some supporters argue it focuses on hiring based on merit.

Target’s 2023 workforce report showed a balanced racial and gender distribution, with 56% of employees being people of color, Al-Jazeera has reported.

DEI programs, popularized after 2020 protests, have faced criticism from conservative groups for being discriminatory and undermining merit-based hiring.

Written by B.C. Begley