Reverend Al Sharpton orchestrated a shopping event at a Harlem Costco, bringing along over 100 members of his National Action Network to demonstrate support for the company's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). This action followed a recent shareholder vote where Costco rejected a proposal that would have required the company to report on the perceived risks associated with its DEI policies.
Sharpton explained on social media that the purpose of the event was to commend Costco for upholding its DEI initiatives. He reportedly distributed $25 gift certificates to each participant for use at the store. In a speech outside the store, Sharpton declared, "We’re supporting Costco because they’ve supported us. We stand with those who stand with us." This 'buy-in' comes as several companies are scaling back their DEI programs in response to public and political pressure.
The activist shareholder group, National Center for Public Policy Research, had introduced the anti-DEI measure. Ethan Peck, a representative from the group, indicated to Fox News Digital that their efforts to influence Costco's DEI policies are not over. He believes there is a possibility that the company may reconsider its stance by the end of the year.
Sharpton's demonstration of support for Costco contrasts with his previous calls for boycotts against companies that have chosen to eliminate or reduce their DEI programs. He has framed DEI as a necessary corrective measure for past discrimination and inequities. This event also comes in the wake of President Trump's executive orders to end DEI initiatives within the federal government, actions that Sharpton has strongly criticized.
While Costco maintains its commitment to DEI, other major corporations, including Facebook, McDonald’s, Walmart, and Harley-Davidson, have recently scaled back their DEI programs amidst growing national debate on the subject.
