Melissa Butler, founder of The Lip Bar, has weighed in on Target’s rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. While her products remain on Target shelves, the beauty entrepreneur expressed both disappointment and realism about the changes.
Melissa Butler Shares Her Thoughts on Target’s Controversial Decision
“So, of course, we were disappointed, just like many of you, when we learned that they were rolling back their DEI initiatives,” Butler stated. “But I will say, even though I’m disappointed, I’m not that surprised. I always thought that the 2020 commitments were a farce.”
Butler linked the rollback to broader societal shifts, saying, “I think part of it is because Trump is emboldening companies to reverse commitments they never wanted to do in the first place.”
Target’s decision has sparked controversy, with some calling for boycotts. Butler addressed the potential impact such actions could have on businesses like hers.
“If all of our consumers boycott Target, then that will absolutely impact us,” she explained. “Many people are saying, ‘I’d rather shop on your site.’ I understand, but by not shopping in these stores, you’re also impacting the hundreds of Black-owned and women-owned businesses.”
Other entrepreneurs, including Tabitha Brown, have echoed Butler’s concerns, warning that boycotts could harm the businesses the Black community aims to uplift. However, Brown and Butler have faced criticism from some who see their perspectives as prioritizing profits over principles.
A Call for Internal Support
In a follow-up video, Butler turned the spotlight on consumer habits, urging greater support for Black-owned brands. “We barely shop Black brands, if we’re gonna be honest,” she said. “The reason we don’t have powerhouse brands is because our support is finicky.”
She emphasized the importance of economic empowerment within the Black community. “We don’t have the control you want us to have because we’re not keeping our dollars within our community,” she said. “Now, when someone decides they don’t want to support us, we’re all up in arms. Well, we created this.”
Butler’s comments serve as a reminder of the complex interplay between corporate policies, community support, and the long-term growth of Black-owned businesses.