Recently, a wave of corporate rollbacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives has sent ripples through the business world. Retail giants like Target, Walmart, and Amazon, along with tech giant Meta, have scaled back their DEI programs following political and societal pressures, including a directive from President Trump urging federal agencies and private companies to abandon such initiatives. These rollbacks have raised alarms among Black entrepreneurs, many of whom rely on these programs to secure shelf space, gain visibility, and access broader markets.
These policy reversals are not without consequences. DEI initiatives have been instrumental in providing opportunities for underrepresented groups, including Black-owned businesses, to thrive in competitive environments. Now, as these programs are dialed back, the question arises: how can consumers and allies, continue to support Black entrepreneurs during this challenging time?
What Are Black Entrepreneurs Saying about DEI Rollbacks?
The backlash against DEI rollbacks has been swift and heartfelt among Black business owners.
Tabitha Brown
Tabitha Brown, an entrepreneur and actress whose products have graced Target shelves, captured the sentiment of many when she shared her thoughts on Instagram.
“It’s for everyone who is a woman-owned business, minority-owned business, and Black-owned business,” she said, emphasizing the hard-fought battle to secure retail partnerships.
Following the DEI rollbacks, many online have called for boycotts of the stores that have decided to end their diversity and equity efforts. Brown expressed concern that boycotting these retailers could inadvertently hurt the very Black businesses consumers aim to support.
“If we all decide to stop supporting said businesses,” she warned, “then those companies get to say, ‘Oh, your products are not performing,’ and they can remove them from the shelves.”
Melissa Butler
Melissa Butler, founder of The Lip Bar, echoed similar frustrations. Her brand, the largest Black-owned makeup company in Target, has already witnessed the precarious nature of retail partnerships.
“Commitments like the DEI programs announced in 2020 were something that many corporations didn’t actually want to do,” Butler stated, attributing the rollbacks to a lack of genuine commitment.
Eunique Jones-Gibson
Eunique Jones-Gibson, CEO of Culture Brands, underscored the importance of strategic action rather than reaction. While expressing her disappointment, she highlighted the dangers of boycotts if not thoughtfully executed.
“We should be intentional with our dollars while being cognizant of the unintentional harm we may cause by completely withdrawing support from the brands still on shelves in those stores,” Jones-Gibson advised.
Amanda Seales
Actress and comedian Amanda Seales also weighed in with a bold and principled stand. Announcing her decision to leave all Meta platforms as of February 1st, Seales emphasized integrity over convenience.
“This is the first boycott that will affect me directly monetarily,” she explained in a candid Instagram video. “But it is what is necessary—not just for the good of people, but the good of your soul.”
Seales shared that she had been preparing for this decision for over a year, scaling back her lifestyle to reduce dependence on corporate-driven capitalism. Her actions sparked significant discussion online, with supporters applauding her commitment to aligning her values with her choices.
How to Support Black Entrepreneurs During DEI Rollbacks
While the rollback of DEI initiatives poses challenges, there are impactful ways to support Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs:
- Shop Intentionally: If you decide to continue to shop at major retailers, prioritize purchasing from Black-owned brands within these stores. Supporting these businesses helps ensure they remain on shelves and retain the visibility they have worked so hard to achieve.
- Buy Directly: When feasible, purchase products directly from Black-owned businesses via their websites. This ensures that more of your dollars go directly to the business, bypassing intermediaries.
- Follow the Leaders: Many Black creators and business owners are sharing their perspectives on how best to navigate this moment. For instance, Amanda Seales has taken a bold stand by boycotting Meta platforms, encouraging her followers to stay connected via alternative channels. Look to trusted voices in your community for guidance on actionable steps.
- Engage on Social Media: Social platforms remain critical tools for Black entrepreneurs to reach their audiences. If you decide to boycott certain platforms, find the small businesses you love on the channels you will continue to use. Follow, like, and share posts from Black-owned businesses and creators to amplify their reach and visibility.
- Educate Yourself and Others: Share information about the challenges Black entrepreneurs face and the importance of continued support. Raising awareness among friends and family can create a ripple effect of conscious consumerism.
- Advocate for Equity: Use your voice to demand accountability from corporations. Write to companies, sign petitions, and support organizations that push for equitable practices in business.
In times of adversity, unity becomes the greatest strength. Supporting Black entrepreneurs amid DEI rollbacks requires intentionality, patience, and a commitment to the long game. Change happens when communities unite and act with purpose. Together, communities can continue to uplift and sustain Black businesses, creating a future where equity and inclusion are not optional but essential.