Civil rights activist Reverend Al Sharpton has called for a boycott of PepsiCo, alleging the company has rolled back its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies. Sharpton made the announcement during his MSNBC show on Saturday, stating that PepsiCo has three weeks to comply with his demands.
"We're putting them on notice," Sharpton said during the broadcast. "We're going to give them three weeks to come to the table."
Sharpton's threat comes amid a broader national conversation about the role of DEI in corporate America. Some companies have faced criticism for what some perceive as an overemphasis on DEI, while others argue that these initiatives are crucial for creating a more equitable workplace. The boycott threat could significantly impact PepsiCo's brand reputation and sales, especially if it gains widespread support. PepsiCo has not yet released a public statement regarding Sharpton's demands. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected in the coming weeks.
Al Sharpton Calls for Pepsi Boycott Over DEI Concerns
Reverend Al Sharpton has threatened a boycott of PepsiCo, citing concerns over the company's adjustments to its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. During his MSNBC program, Sharpton gave PepsiCo a three-week ultimatum to address his concerns. The potential boycott highlights ongoing debates about corporate responsibility and DEI policies. This action follows similar reactions to companies reevaluating their commitment to DEI.