Rev. Al Sharpton Threatens Boycotts for Companies Ending DEI: 'You Took Everything'

Rev. Al Sharpton urged Americans to boycott companies that have abolished diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, arguing that they are attempting to push Black individuals to the "back of the bus."

At a rally in Washington, D.C., in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, Sharpton declared a call to action in the spirit of King's civil rights legacy.

"Because you denied us diversity, equity, and inclusion, DEI was implemented as a remedy to racial institutionalized bigotry in academia and corporations. If you want to put us back in the back of the bus, we will do the Dr. King-Rosa Parks on you," Sharpton stated.

""You forgot who we are, the ones you took everything from, and we are still here," he added."

The National Action Network, led by Sharpton, will conduct a months-long investigation into companies abandoning DEI policies and their financial performance. Following the study's completion, the organization will select two companies for a boycott.

Sharpton stated that in 90 days, they would reveal the two companies they plan to pursue, and everyone in the country, regardless of race, gender, or sexual orientation, should refrain from purchasing from establishments that do not respect them.

After several companies, including Walmart, McDonald's, Ford, Meta, and others, announced plans to reduce or eliminate their DEI initiatives, Sharpton made his announcement.

Sharpton urged his followers to back companies that are adhering to their DEI policies, such as Costco.

After being inaugurated as the 47th president, Trump quickly signed an executive order to end DEI programs across the federal government.

"Dr. King's legacy of fighting for equality and inclusion is celebrated in this district," Sharpton stated. "On this side of town, Martin Luther King Jr. sacrificed his life to pave the way for a more inclusive America, regardless of race, sexual orientation, or gender identity. We stand with Dr. King."

Planet Chronicle Digital has reached out to MSNBC and Sharpton for comment.