Target apologizes after pulling Halloween costume criticized as racist

Target has removed a children’s Halloween costume from its shelves following widespread criticism that the product resembled racist minstrel caricatures. The item, marketed as the ‘Kids’ Glows Under Blacklight Circus Clown Halloween Costume,’ featured a black-and-orange design with a mask depicting a wide, toothy smile, which critics argued perpetuated harmful Black stereotypes.

In an official statement, Target apologized, stating, “As a company, we know we got this wrong, and we are deeply sorry.” The retailer confirmed the costume is no longer available for sale and noted that the company is investigating how the error occurred to prevent future incidents.

Actress Viola Davis publicly rejected the corporation’s apology on social media. In a post that garnered significant attention, Davis stated, “Target, I do not accept your apology, and I do not believe that you understand the impact… the pain… the dehumanization of the above.” She emphasized the historical weight of such imagery, noting that these depictions laid the foundation for atrocities against Black people.