Walmart is currently in hot water for its support of civil rights activist Rev. Al Sharpton. However, what most people would probably be surprised to know is that the massive retailer has reportedly donated money to Rev. Sharpton’s organization, the National Action Network , for many years.
The organization, known for its motto “No Justice, No Peace,” has been accused of being an “anti-police” organization by many news outlets. Last week, Sharpton was scrutinized when he denied New York mayor Bill de Blasio’s request to have protests suspended in honor of the two fallen NYPD officers. Then, of course, the “dead cops” chant at the march in Washington D.C. on Dec. 13 definitely didn’t help Sharpton’s reputation even though Fox News was accused of blaming his influence. Now that two NYPD officers have been killed, the National Legal and Policy Center is asking that Walmart stop funding Sharpton’s organization, which supports his alleged “anti-police” agenda.
The letter, which was addressed to Walmart CEO C. Douglas McMillon, was reportedly written by Peter Flaherty of the NLPC.
Here’s what Flaherty has to say:
“We ask that Walmart end its financial support of Al Sharpton and his organization, the National Action Network (NAN). The cold-blooded murder of two New York City police officers, Rafael Ramos and Wenjian Liu, follows weeks of Sharpton’s vilification of law enforcement personnel.
“As you know, Walmart has helped bankroll Sharpton for years. Most recently, the company was a sponsor of Sharpton’s 60th birthday party in New York City, which reportedly was a fundraiser for NAN that raised a million dollars.
“We have repeatedly raised the issue of your support for Sharpton, including at the Walmart annual meeting. You cannot lay any claim to corporate social responsibility as long as you write checks to Sharpton.
“Other corporations support NAN, and we will be making the same request of them, but Walmart is the biggest and most prominent corporation funding Sharpton. It is essential that Walmart lead the way in disassociating corporate America from Sharpton’s demagoguery. Police officers are working people whose dedication and professionalism help keep us all safe. They are also Walmart customers and shareholders. You can demonstrate your support for law enforcement by ending your support for Sharpton without delay.”
Although the request is quite clear, apparently, Walmart isn’t receptive to the idea since this isn’t the first time a request has been made. Back in 2009, Walmart was questioned about its support of NAN. However, the company made it clear that it would continue to support Rev. Sharpton’s organization. In an email to shareholders, Walmart also explained why it supports the organization.
“Our support for NAN is focused on addressing health and wellness issues and other issues important to our customers and associates. Our company will continue to support organizations that can further our mission to help people live better.”
Do you think Walmart should stop supporting Al Sharpton’s organization? Share your thoughts.
[Image(s) via FameGame, Windsor Star]