MINNEAPOLIS (dpa-AFX) - The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) has launched a nationwide back-to-school boycott of Target, urging its 1.8 million members, their families and allies to shop elsewhere because the retailer has not publicly condemned U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations in Minnesota.
AFT President Randi Weingarten said Target had been given sufficient time to 'stand with' communities affected by immigration enforcement but remained silent.
The union launched its 'Shop Smart, Not Target' campaign after sending letters to Target CEO Michael Fiddelke earlier this year. The campaign includes a website directing shoppers to alternative retailers that employ unionised workers.
The Department of Homeland Security rejected the AFT's characterisation of ICE operations, saying the agency enforces federal immigration laws and does not target schools.
Critics of the boycott have also raised questions about the campaign's potential impact on Target shares held by AFT members' pension funds. The AFT reportedly holds 6.79 million Target shares.
Copyright(c) 2026 RTTNews.com. All Rights Reserved
Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX
© 2026 AFX News
