Target Donates $300K to NBCUSA Amid National Boycott
*The National Baptist Convention USA (NBCUSA) is facing intense backlash after accepting $300,000 from retail giant Target.
The controversy erupted as the donation came during an ongoing national boycott of Target over DEI cutbacks.
The NBCUSA, the largest Black denomination in the U.S. with over 31,000 churches and 7.5 million members, confirmed the partnership with Target would last three years.
But the timing of the deal has sparked outrage from leaders and members across the country.
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Roland Martin Calls the Move a Betrayal to Black America
Journalist Roland Martin has been one of the loudest voices criticizing the partnership. He accused the NBCUSA of betraying the Black community by aligning with Target while many are still boycotting the company.
“I know for a fact they’ve received $300,000 from Target. And so what you have literally is the National Baptist Convention, USA, selling Out Black America with Target. Oh, I can read the Pressive release ’cause y’all gotta understand I ain’t got no problem calling anybody out. I use names. I tag your ass on social media.
“I want you to see what I wrote. And this says it right here. The National Baptist Convention USA is committed to ensuring that corporations that do business in our communities give back to help rebuild and stabilize neighborhoods. The partnership with Target is based on our shared commitment to community empowerment through small business and entrepreneurial development, investments in education and student support, and workforce in skill development that unlocks growth.”
#TargetFast Sparked a Powerful DEI Boycott Movement
The boycott of Target started with Pastor Jamal Bryant of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. He launched the #TargetFast, a 40-day call to stop shopping at Target to protest the company’s rollback of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
Although the fast officially ended, many have continued boycotting Target to apply ongoing pressure. Reports show Target has suffered a drop in store traffic and sales during the protest period. Many NBCUSA churches and members supported the boycott, even though the national denomination itself never officially endorsed it.
Critics Say NBCUSA Undermined the DEI Fight
Many community leaders and online critics say the $300K donation undercuts the entire purpose of the boycott. They argue the amount is small for a company that made over $4 billion in 2024.
“Crumbs” is how some online users described the donation, comparing it to Target’s massive earnings. The NBCUSA’s acceptance of the funds is seen by some as weakening the push for DEI accountability.
Commenters also point out the contradiction of accepting funds while participating in the same movement that challenges Target’s actions.
President Dr. Boise Kimber Defends the Target Deal
In the official announcement, NBCUSA President Dr. Boise Kimber defended the partnership with Target. He claimed it would bring important community benefits.
Dr. Kimber stated, “Target’s generous donation will help us to provide scholarships, support senior citizens, and invest in entrepreneurship programs that uplift our people and the future.”
He also said NBCUSA set expectations with Target and that senior leaders responded positively. However, Dr. Kimber has not directly responded to Roland Martin’s sharp criticism.
Black Church Leaders Divided Over Corporate Donations
This situation has revealed a divide within Black religious communities.
While NBCUSA chose partnership, others—like the Progressive National Baptist Convention—led the protest against Target.
Rev. Jamal Bryant has been vocal in urging financial resistance, not cooperation. The difference in approach raises questions about how faith leaders should engage with corporations during times of social unrest.
Critics say donations should not replace real action on racial equity, and accepting money during a boycott sends mixed signals to the community.
Why This Controversy Matters to Black America
This story touches deeper issues about trust, leadership, and economic justice. As corporations face backlash over DEI rollbacks, communities expect solidarity from institutions like NBCUSA—not quiet deals.
Roland Martin and others argue the fight for equity must come before funding. Accepting a donation without addressing broader concerns weakens the message of resistance.
The NBCUSA’s decision will likely impact its relationship with younger, socially active members demanding accountability and transparency from both churches and corporations.
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: Rallying for Equality: Target Faces Pressure to Reinstate DEI Programs as Activists Mobilize – Petition Surges Past 127,500 Signatures
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