On Wednesday I attended a prayer vigil outside the Allegheny County jail, focussing on the destructive effect of current U.S.A. immigration policies on families. Today I heard that my favorite department store gave money to support a candidate who is outspoken against immigration reform (unless it involves a more militarized border) and against marriage and other civil rights for gays and lesbians. Below is a letter I wrote to Target's corporate headquarters in Minnesota.
"I am very disappointed in Target! I read that you gave a very large amount of money to MN Forward to support Tom Emmer's campaign. Tom Emmer is quite outspoken against human rights for segments of our population including immigrants and gays and lesbians. I have long been very enthusiastic about Target and have encouraged others to shop there because you support the communities where you locate and you support your employees. I usually prefer to use local stores, and Target has long been my exception. I have seen evidence that you care about the communities you are in, and you have good quality products. This recent donation is a far cry from the standards I expect from Target. Your donation is a slap in the face to many people who work and shop in your stores. Your statement said the donation was in support of economic issues. Denying the humanity and civil rights of major segments of the U.S.A. population does NOT help our economy!
"I am sorry to say that I no longer want to shop at Target. I try hard to have my shopping habits match my beliefs. I can not spend my volunteer time working for immigration reform and civil rights for gays and lesbians, and then spend my dollars at a company working against my friends. If I see evidence that you have changed your minds or at least are trying to balance your giving, I will reconsider. I will miss Target, but I miss my friends being deported even more!"
