Target is not welcome at the Twin Cities Pride Festival this year despite being a longtime sponsor, organizers say, because the company recently ended some of its DEI programs.

One of the country’s largest retailers said it will end the diversity, equity and inclusion goals it sets in three-year cycles and curtail racial equity initiatives.

The retailer's decision met with notable criticism, with some noting the company's reputation for inclusiveness has helped it attract a younger, more diverse consumer base.

Discount store chain Target said it would join rival Walmart and a number of other prominent American brands in scaling back diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives while Costco shareholders