Civil rights activist and MSNBC host Al Sharpton publicly urged viewers to support a boycott of PepsiCo during a recent segment of his televised program, citing dissatisfaction with the company’s perceived retreat from diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
Sharpton expressed concern that the beverage and snack giant had scaled back its corporate diversity commitments, a move he described as part of a troubling trend among major U.S. companies in response to political and shareholder pressure. He argued that companies must be held accountable when they reduce or walk back support for programs aimed at advancing racial and social equity in the workplace.
During his broadcast, Sharpton encouraged consumers who value DEI policies to reconsider supporting brands that, in his view, are not actively upholding those principles. He called for a sustained economic response to drive home the message that diversity should remain a core priority for corporations, not a temporary marketing tool.
Sharpton’s comments come amid a broader national debate surrounding corporate responsibility and the role of DEI programs. Several major firms have faced criticism from both sides of the political spectrum—some accusing them of not doing enough, while others argue such efforts have gone too far or become politicized.
PepsiCo has not issued a public response to Sharpton’s remarks as of this writing. The company has previously highlighted its DEI investments and employee programs, but questions have emerged in recent months regarding changes to internal diversity targets and leadership roles overseeing equity initiatives.
Sharpton’s boycott call has already sparked conversation across social media, with supporters applauding his push for corporate accountability and critics questioning the effectiveness of consumer boycotts in influencing long-term policy changes.
The situation continues to unfold as public figures, corporations, and advocacy groups navigate the increasingly charged environment around corporate values and social responsibility.