Target’s new TONE brand with Kai Cenat’s AMP group faces criticism as Black communities boycott the retailer for scaling back DEI programs.

Two critical employer actions stand out: ensuring DEI programs are legally compliant and offering employee training that supports inclusivity while minimizing risk.

Target linked up with Kai Cenat, but a lot of folks in the Black community see it as a cover-up, not a comeback.

Faces Controversy Over Target Sponsorship *The Essence Festival of Culture is known for celebrating Black excellence, music, empowerment, and entrepreneurship. But in 2025, the beloved New Orleans event found itself at the center of a cultural firestorm over one major issue—its ongoing sponsorship with Target.

Target has partnered with popular streamer Kai Cenat to launch a personal care brand called Tone despite ongoing boycotts.

Two separate leaders of boycotts against Target and its rollback of diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, want the donation returned.

Target is facing growing backlash and declining sales as a national boycott continues, intensified by a private meeting with the Congressional Black Caucus going public. The CBC and Black leaders condemned Target’s rollback of diversity efforts,

Target announces July Circle Week promotions as boycotts persist originally appeared on Bring Me The News. For the second time this year, Target is running its Circle Week promotion.

Learn more in The N&O’s higher ed newsletter about key differences and similarities between Senate Bill 558 and the UNC System’s policy.

The Essence Festival of Culture addressed why they kept their partnership with Target alive amid boycotts of the retailer.