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Target pulls Halloween costume following racist imagery backlash
Target has removed a children’s Halloween costume from its shelves and website following widespread social media backlash. The product, a ‘Kids’ Glows Under Blacklight Circus Clown Halloween Costume’ from the Hyde and EEK! Boutique line, was criticized for its resemblance to racist minstrel caricatures and blackface imagery from the Jim Crow era. Critics specifically pointed to the promotional imagery featuring a Black child as a factor that amplified the offensive nature of the design.
In a statement, Target apologized, saying, “As a company, we know we got this wrong, and we are deeply sorry. The costume is offensive and should never have been part of our assortment.” The retailer stated it is conducting an internal investigation to prevent future occurrences.
The controversy arrives as Target navigates a complex period, including recent rollbacks of its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and leadership changes. Rev. Jamal Bryant, who previously led a boycott against the retailer, noted that the incident suggests a continued lack of corporate diversity among decision-makers.
Entities
Al Sharpton · Brian Cornell · Donald Trump · Hyde and EEK! Boutique · Jamal Bryant · Michael Fiddelke · Sheletta Brundidge · Target