First batch of GRAMMY performers unveiled

Target dials down diversity goals, scales back DEI programs

Popular chain store Target has revealed its plan to reduce its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. 

“Many years of data, insights, listening, and learning have been shaping this next chapter in our strategy. And as a retailer that serves millions of consumers every day, we understand the importance of staying in step with the evolving external landscape, now and in the future,” explained their Chief Community Impact and Equity Officer Kiera Fernandez.

These DEI initiatives were originally meant to promote the hiring of members of minority groups like people of color, women, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ+, and more.

Such plans for a diversity rollback had already been manifested. For instance, Target expressed its intention to conclude Racial Equity Action and Change (REACH), a racial program that it established in 2020. REACH aimed to extend assistance to Black workers, shoppers, and business owners.

Notably, Target is not the only business to phase out its DEI commitments recently. Major consumer brands like Walmart, Lowe’s, McDonald’s, Ford, and others have also followed suit.

This follows Trump’s return to office, during which he signed an executive order to cut funding and end DEI programs within the federal government. 

GRAMMYs reveal first lineup of performers

The first list of performers for the 67th Annual Grammy Awards has been announced.

Some of the biggest names in music, including this year's nominees as well as past winners, will take the stage on February 2 at the Cryto.com Arena. 

@grammys

🎶 The power of music, LIVE, at the 67TH GRAMMY Awards.

🎤 @Benson, @BILLIE EILISH, @chappell roan, @Charli XCX, @Doechii, @Raye, @Sabrina ... See more

Shakira, global superstar and three-time GRAMMY winner, will also make her return to the stage.

Meanwhile, "Brat" pop star Charli XCX, nominated for eight awards, is sure to transform the arena into an electrifying dance party with her performance.

Finally, first-time nominees like Chappell Roan, Doechii, Sabrina Carpenter, Teddy Swims, and Benson Boone are set to captivate audiences with performances that showcase their talent and highlight why they were nominated in the first place.

The More You Know

• BTS Jin released a new single titled “Close to You” as part of the official soundtrack for K-drama When the Stars Gossip.

• Just weeks after ending their contracts with Pledis Entertainment, former fromis_9 members Chaeyoung, Hayoung, Jiheon, Jiwon, and Nagyung signed with a new agency, ASND. Meanwhile, Jisun, Saerom, and Seoyeon chose to focus on individual pursuits and left the group.

• Despite being temporarily restored for use, TikTok has still not been made available again for download in Google Playstore and Apple App Stores. With that, phones with TikTok installed on them have been listed on eBay, with prices ranging from $510 to $25,000. 

• House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries issued a statement: “Wait. The price of eggs and the cost of living was supposed to go down. Not up.” This was a reference to Trump’s campaign promise that he would bring down the price of groceries, which he reportedly claimed that he could achieve on his first day of office. Data, however, shows a different story. Recently, egg prices hit a record high of $4.15 per dozen, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In California, a dozen eggs average $8.97, while in New York, it costs $6.62. In fact, the Consumer Price Index recorded an increase of 36.8% from last year. Experts have pointed to the H5N1 virus outbreak in 2022, which caused an egg shortage, as the main factor behind the price surge.

— Bea Bertuldo

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