Sharpton threatened to lead a boycott against the company over its recent decision to roll back some of its diversity, equity and inclusion programs.
PepsiCo’s leaders have scheduled a meeting this week with civil rights advocates from the National Action Network to address the company’s recent actions regarding its diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, as reported by Reverend Al Sharpton on Monday.
After sending a letter to PepsiCo CEO Ramon Laguarta on April 4, Sharpton had warned of leading a boycott against the company. The multinational corporation, known for its well-known brands Gatorade, Lay’s, Doritos, Mountain Dew, and Pepsi, had informed employees in February that it was discontinuing the practice of setting targets for minority representation in its leadership positions and supplier network.
Sharpton mentioned his upcoming meeting with Laguarta, expressing his intention to question the CEO about the specifics behind the decision and the company’s ongoing commitments to promoting equal opportunities in both employment and business contracts.
A spokesperson for PepsiCo did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
PepsiCo is one of several companies, including Walmart and Target, that have eliminated policies and programs aimed at increasing diversity among its employees and reducing discrimination against members of minority groups, women and LGBTQ+ people since President Donald Trump returned to the White House earlier this year.
Trump ended DEI programswithin the federal government and has warned schools to do the same or risk losing federal money.
In January, Sharpton led a “buy-cott” at Costco, encouraging Americans to vote with their dollars and shop at the retail giant for its commitment to DEI policies, even as many of its competitors phased them out.
“That is the only viable tool that I see at this time, which is why we’ve rewarded those that stood with us,” Sharpton told The Associated Press.
