A passionate open letter, a call for unity, and a plea for social responsibility—Pastor Jamal Bryant has reached out to superstar rapper Cardi B amid a growing boycott against Target within the Black community in the US.

From a Selfie to a Storm: Cardi B Unexpectedly Drawn Into Controversy

It all began when Cardi B—one of the world’s most influential rappers with over 160 million social media followers—posted a casual selfie with her family inside a Target store. What seemed like an ordinary moment quickly caught the attention of Pastor Jamal Bryant, who is currently leading a national campaign urging Black Americans to boycott Target.

In his public open letter, Pastor Bryant didn’t criticize Cardi B harshly. Instead, he expressed respect and empathy, emphasizing the immense influence she holds within the community.

“Dear @iamcardib, Grace and Peace to you! I come to you with a chest full of love.”

Target and Broken Promises

Pastor Bryant explained that the boycott stems from deep disappointment with Target—a retail giant he accuses of quietly abandoning its commitments to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). He claims Target has pulled back from investing in Black colleges, banks, and businesses—initiatives it once promised to support after the Black Lives Matter movement.

“African Americans spend 12 million dollars a day, yet they don’t see us as a viable partner. We’ve asked them to invest in Black banks, Black colleges, and Black communities, and under pressure from the administration, they haven’t even felt compelled to respond.”

Bryant credited the community’s activism with contributing to a decline in Target’s stock price, reduced foot traffic, and even a cut to the CEO’s salary.

A Respectful Invitation to Cardi B

Despite the serious undertone, Pastor Bryant approached Cardi B with understanding, suggesting her post was likely made without knowledge of the boycott.

“When I saw you post a picture of you and your beautiful family in the store, I felt certain that with your demanding schedule, you were probably unaware. But with 163 million following you, you have tremendous influence. I hope you will visit targetfast.org and walk alongside us.”

Bryant also highlighted the importance of the Latino community—which Cardi B proudly represents—in this movement, affirming the solidarity between Black and Latino communities, as well as support from immigrant workers.

“I’m fully aware that you identify as Latino and have children who represent both communities. You should know this movement has strong support from the Latino community—especially workers.”

A Historic Echo and the Weight of Influence

To close the letter, Pastor Bryant quoted Martin Luther King Jr., underscoring the historical significance of the Target boycott and comparing it to the iconic Montgomery Bus Boycott of 70 years ago:

“Your presence could be part of the most effective boycott in 70 years since the Montgomery Bus Boycott. In the words of Martin Luther King, ‘A person who doesn’t stand for something will fall for anything.’”

Will Cardi B Respond?

As of now, Cardi B has not issued any public response to Pastor Bryant’s open letter. Fans and community members are waiting to see whether she will lend her voice to the movement or remain silent in the face of Bryant’s heartfelt appeal.

Regardless of her decision, Pastor Jamal Bryant’s letter is a powerful reminder of the influence artists have—and the crucial role they play in shaping community consciousness during pivotal moments.