Rev. Al Sharpton’s National Action Network (NAN) convention, held April 2–5, 2025, focused on combating corporate retreats from diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) commitments. The event included panels on anti-DEI policies, healthcare access, and social justice, culminating in releasing a list of companies to boycott for abandoning DEI. NAN organized “buy-cotts” supporting businesses like Costco that maintain DEI while preparing targeted boycotts against others.
Fox News framed the convention as a potential “funeral” for DEI, suggesting the movement is declining. However, the convention’s agenda emphasized proactive strategies, including legal discussions, grassroots organizing, and youth engagement, contradicting the “funeral” narrative. Sharpton reiterated that DEI addresses historical discrimination and warned corporations against reversing progress.
The event coincided with President Trump’s executive order ending federal DEI programs, highlighting a political divide. NAN’s actions reflect ongoing activism rather than surrender, positioning the convention as a rallying point for accountability and economic pressure.
