The daughters of one of Target's founding figures have voiced their deep concern over the company's recent changes to its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. In letters to prominent newspapers, Anne and Lucy Dayton expressed alarm at the rapid shift away from policies that were once a cornerstone of the company's values. Their father, Bruce Dayton, was instrumental in transforming a local Minneapolis department store into a national retail giant. The sisters emphasized their father's commitment to ethical business practices and community engagement. This development reflects a broader trend among companies scaling back on DEI efforts amid increasing political pressure.

Daughters Speak Out Against DEI Rollback

In the heart of a bustling autumn season, Anne and Lucy Dayton, daughters of Bruce Dayton, one of the visionary entrepreneurs who built Target into a household name, have publicly aired their concerns regarding the company’s recent policy shifts. Bruce Dayton, alongside his four brothers, expanded their father’s modest Minneapolis department store into a renowned national brand. Now, decades later, his daughters are drawing attention to what they perceive as a significant departure from the values their father championed.

In letters published in the Financial Times and the Los Angeles Times, Anne and Lucy Dayton highlighted their father’s unwavering belief in fostering strong communities and prioritizing customer satisfaction. They expressed dismay over the corporate world’s apparent capitulation to political pressures, particularly noting that it is not illegal for companies to establish business models based on ethical standards. The sisters criticized the speed with which businesses have retreated from these principles, warning of the potential long-term consequences for both society and corporate success.

Target, under CEO Brian Cornell, had previously affirmed its commitment to DEI as a core value, emphasizing its importance for both societal progress and brand strength. However, recent actions suggest a shift in this stance. The company began reducing LGBTQ+ pride merchandise following campaigns by conservative activists. Additionally, a proposed class-action lawsuit filed by a Florida police pension fund accused Target of misleading statements regarding the financial impact of its DEI strategy. While some companies openly announce policy changes, others quietly remove DEI references from their communications, reflecting a complex and evolving landscape of corporate social responsibility.

From a journalistic perspective, this situation underscores the delicate balance between maintaining corporate values and responding to external pressures. It raises important questions about the sustainability of ethical commitments in the face of political and economic challenges. The Dayton sisters' public statement serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring influence of founding principles and the responsibility of leadership to uphold them. As the debate around DEI continues, it will be crucial for companies to navigate these issues thoughtfully, ensuring that their actions align with both their stated values and the needs of their stakeholders.