Target is committed to serving the needs of the African-American community.  Community giving programs have strengthened families and ethnic communities nationwide through the power of learning and educational partnerships. Throughout support for leading African-American cultural organizations, educational institutions and the arts, Target makes all guests – regardless of ethnicity – feel welcomed and valued. Providing this access to relevant organizations, programs, and merchandise, further demonstrates Target’s support and encouragement of diversity.

Reaching the African-American Guest
Target honors the history and accomplishments of African-Americans all year-long. Target introduced its Dream In Color campaign, in partnership with Dr. Maya Angelou, the Poetry Foundation, and The Furious Flower Poetry Center at James Madison University during this year’s Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday. Dream In Color explores the rich legacy of African-American voices that hope to inspire the celebration of diversity and the belief that all things are possible. Offering an online curriculum (Target.com/dreamincolor) for educators of elementary, junior high, and high school students to further encourage classroom celebrations, Target also provided Dream In Color posters to 100,000 schools across the country.

To further recognize the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Target annually sponsors several events across the country, including this year’s Morehouse College performance by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra where Dr. Angelou recited her latest poem A Pledge to Rescue Our Youth. Target was also previously recognized with the “Salute to Greatness” award from the King Center in Atlanta for its ongoing commitment to community giving.

In celebration of Black Music Month, Target has also previously offered exclusive compact discs, including last year’s compilation of Def Jam artists, in-store and online.  Target is also now offering guests Lil’ Jams – a unique compilation disc of hip-hop hits from the present and past, sung by kids, for kids of all ages.

Giving to the African-American Community
Target gives back more than $3 million a week through grants and special programs that support education, the arts, social services and other vital community partnerships.  Target giving allows unprecedented access to leading cultural institutions and the arts, as demonstrated through its sponsorship of Target Sundays at the California African-American Museum, which allows the museum to open one Sunday a month for a free celebration of African-American storytelling, theater, music, and dance. Target also supports the performing arts, through the sponsorship of various musical performances, dance festivals, and theater events, like the Dallas Black Dance Theater and the Congo Square Theatre 2 for 1 Matinees in Chicago. To help educate America’s future leaders, Target also awards hundreds of college scholarships annually to deserving African-American students through the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). 

Meeting Merchandise Needs 
Target is committed to serving the needs of our African-American guests by offering a range of products that appeal to their tastes, such as today’s hottest hip-hop/neo-soul music, ethnic dolls and books, and a special greeting card collection. We also ensure products that meet the unique beauty and grooming needs of African-Americans – such as cosmetics by Iman®, skin-care products by Ambi®, hair care lines by Pantene Relaxed & Natural® – are readily available on Target shelves.