Companies who value equity must also stick with marginalized communities even when the wealthy oppose their doing so.
A number of people are in an uproar over major corporations’ decision to roll back policies that advance diversity, equity and inclusion. In fact, a prominent Atlanta pastor, Rev. Jamal Bryant announced a 40-day boycott of Target over its reversal of equity policies. Activist Nekima Levy Armstrong in Minnesota also called for a boycott of Target. Others have called for boycotts of Coca-Cola, Pepsi Co., Amazon, Wal-Mart and other retailers over their removal of equity references or programs.
I’m Not Surprised
I am not surprised by the boycotts even if I understand that most companies – even those that profess respectable values – are not naturally benevolent. When given the opportunity, many will often side with the interests of the powerful over those of marginalized communities.
The truth is that having noble intentions wont safeguard against harm. Many must be forced to do the right thing.
Corporations exist to make money and return profits to shareholders. They exist to protect their ability to make money. Anything that disrupts this goal will be uprooted and eliminated. Additionally, in a world where racism is capricious and entrenched, Black people will always struggle to be seen, valued, honored and fairly compensated.
Those with less power will always struggle to be treated with dignity and respect. It doesn’t matter the institution; it doesn’t matter the industry – capitalism demands money, and will do anything to achieve it.
Intention is Not Enough
Doing the right thing then is nice, but it is not a compulsory driver for many corporations or organizations. That is not to suggest that all companies and organizations are bad. I am suggesting that mere intention is useless without accountability.
An entity proclaiming to despise racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia and classism is meaningless if there isn’t a system in place to ensure they and the people in their employ are treating all people with dignity and respect. And here’s the thing – dignity and respect are about more than just being nice or saying the right things in the presence of others. It’s about equity at every level of the organization.
Supporting Workers
To do right by others, companies must give them every opportunity to thrive. They can do this by paying a living wage, supporting workers as they care for themselves and their families, sharing power, and creating a safe environment. They must also stick with marginalized communities even when the wealthy oppose their doing so.
I’m not surprised Target and other corporations are turning their backs on the pledges for racial equity they promised in the aftermath of George Floyd’s death. But this moment does offer a reminder that we should not be pacified by people and organizations who utter the rhetoric of justice without the history to back it up. We need to move beyond talk and focus on actions.
Jennifer R. Farmer is the principal of Spotlight PR LLC. Check out our blog posts and subscribe for updates.