Although several companies have cut or scaled back DEI programs, Target's reversal on DEI seemed to draw the greatest outrage.

Civil rights groups have announced a boycott of Target stores across the U.S. beginning on February 1, after the retail giant said it would end diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, initiatives aimed at promoting and hiring more women and people from protected minority groups.

Target is ending its DEI program this year, the latest corporation to step away from such policies in the face of scrutiny from conservative groups.