LA Times thinks MoveOn, HRC, gay boycotters wrongheaded for expecting more of Target
”For MoveOn, the fight is at least as much about corporate money as it is about gay rights…. But by pointing out Target’s involvement in Emmer’s campaign and obtaining an apology, MoveOn and Human Rights Campaign had already won; their calls for a boycott and attempt to strong-arm money from the company are deeply counterproductive…. Target’s contribution to MN Forward was at worst a small error of judgment, and should matter far less than the company’s ongoing and long-term commitment to workplace equal rights and its sponsorship of pro-gay events. Moreover, the attempt to wrangle an in-kind contribution from Target is reminiscent of a tactic that appalled gay rights advocates when it was used against them during the campaign for Proposition 8, California’s 2008 initiative banning same-sex marriage.”
Part of an editorial published by the LA Times. The opinion states that gay rights activists have “cheapened” the effectivness of a boycott by calling for one against Target Corporation based on a minor business decision. (LA Times)
This past July, leadership of the retail giant donated $150,000 in cash and consulting services to a politcal action committee. And that PAC has chosen to support a gubenatorial candidate, Tom Emmer of Minnesota, who is said to be both pro-business and against gay relationships obtaining legal benefits. The CEO of Target issued a carefully-worded apology recently, saying he was sorry for how the “decision affected” employees in a way he “did not anticipate” — which is not exactly an apology for the donation itself.
MoveOn.org, a progressive political organization, released an animated commercial denouncing Target this week. The Human Rights Campaign also expressed a strong negative reaction to Target’s leaders because they said they are not willing to contribute another $150,000 to a pro-gay organization. The entire issue is not sitting well with many gay and gay-supportive fans of Target, many feeling caught between a passionate call for a boycott and their own genuine appreciation for the store’s image and services.
”We believe that it is impossible to avoid turning any further actions into a political issue and will use the benefit of time to make thoughtful, careful decisions on how best to move forward.”
Taken from of a statement released by Target Corp, assumably in response to calls from HRC, and others, to make a “corrective” donation to an LGBT organization. (Washington Post)
Support Metro Weekly’s Journalism
These are challenging times for news organizations. And yet it’s crucial we stay active and provide vital resources and information to both our local readers and the world. So won’t you please take a moment and consider supporting Metro Weekly with a membership? For as little as $5 a month, you can help ensure Metro Weekly magazine and MetroWeekly.com remain free, viable resources as we provide the best, most diverse, culturally-resonant LGBTQ coverage in both the D.C. region and around the world. Memberships come with exclusive perks and discounts, your own personal digital delivery of each week’s magazine (and an archive), access to our Member's Lounge when it launches this fall, and exclusive members-only items like Metro Weekly Membership Mugs and Tote Bags! Check out all our membership levels here and please join us today!
