Activists called for a nationwide boycott of Target when they demonstrated outside of its downtown Minneapolis headquarters on Thursday. One of the social justice activists at the rally, Nekima Levy Armstrong,

Activists are calling for a nationwide boycott of Target stores following the company's decision​ to roll back its diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

Civil rights activists gathered outside Target's headquarters to call for a boycott of the retailing giant over its decision to phase out its diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

"We remain focused on driving our business by creating a sense of belonging for our team, guests and communities through a commitment to inclusion," Target said in a statement announcing the change. "Belonging for all is an essential part of our team and culture, helping fuel consumer relevance and business results."

Civil rights attorney Nekima Levy Armstrong said the boycott against Target began Feb. 1, the first day of Black History Month.

A trio of Minnesotans who previously led reform efforts in the Twin Cities after George Floyd’s murder rallied more than70 people outside Target’s corporate headquarters, calling for a boycott of the retailer over changes in the company’s diversity efforts.

Target will not see a dime of our Black dollars during Black History Month or at any other time,” said a cofounder of Black Lives Matter Minnesota.

Anger at Target surged after it abandoned DEI programs, but Black-owned businesses that struggled to earn shelf space urged critics to focus on buying minority-owned companies' products instead.