NAACP released a guide of companies that have not prioritized diversity, equity, and inclusion, in order to inform consumers where not to spend their money.

The NAACP recently unveiled a new guide to help Black Americans make informed purchasing decisions. The guide features a comprehensive list of companies and their current stance on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. With the rise of boycotts in response to companies' anti-DEI actions, the civil rights organization is stepping in to assist Black consumers in using their buying power wisely.

In the wake of widespread protests for racial justice in 2020, many companies publicly pledged to prioritize DEI efforts. However, the NAACP's spending guide reveals which companies have actually followed through on their commitments and which have backtracked on their promises. The guide not only highlights companies that have disbanded their DEI departments and positions, but also those that have reneged on their goals for diverse supplier contracts and staffing quotas. Additionally, the guide identifies which companies have scaled back investments in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

According to the NAACP, the guide serves as a reminder of the significant impact that Black Americans have in the retail and consumer space. They emphasize that the responsibility for promoting diversity and inclusion should be shared by both businesses and the Black community. Furthermore, the NAACP stresses that DEI initiatives can directly benefit the advancement of Black individuals.

NAACP President Derrick Johnson spoke about the importance of diversity in today's global economy, stating, "Diversity is better for the bottom line. Those who refuse to embrace the multicultural nature of consumerism and business will be left behind in the past." As the guide gains traction online, the NAACP is also engaging in meetings with major companies such as Walmart, Amazon, and McDonald's to discuss their recent changes to DEI programming and the impact on Black consumers. Target, which faced immediate calls for boycotts, is also scheduled to meet with NAACP leaders.

The spending guide also highlights companies that have remained steadfast in their commitment to DEI, including Costco and Ben & Jerry's. Amid the Trump Administration's crackdown on DEI initiatives, the former president faced backlash and legal challenges. However, the NAACP's decision to publicly list companies' actions is aimed at holding them accountable to their Black consumer base. While acknowledging that Black individuals are more likely to live in areas with limited access to goods and services, a study by McKinley estimates that Black Americans' purchasing power will reach $1.7 trillion by 2030. Johnson added, "If corporations want our money, they better be prepared to do the right thing."

This guide's release comes on the heels of a defamation lawsuit against Target by shareholders, in response to the company's decision to scale back on DEI initiatives. By providing this resource, the NAACP hopes to empower Black Americans to use their buying power to support companies that prioritize diversity and inclusion. They also hope to signal to corporations that the Black community will not accept empty promises and will hold them accountable for their actions.

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