Target, the popular retail giant, has found itself in hot water yet again after mistakenly mislabeling historic figures on one of its products. The controversial item, a “Black History Month” magnetic learning activity, was brought to the attention of the public through a viral TikTok video posted by Tierra Espy, a high school teacher in Las Vegas.
In the video, Espy points out that the three distinguished Civil Rights leaders featured on the product, Carter G. Woodson, W.E.B. DuBois, and Booker T. Washington, were all misidentified. Woodson’s name appears under DuBois’ photo, Washington’s name is under Woodson’s photo, and DuBois’ name is under Washington’s photo. Espy, who teaches U.S. History, was shocked and disappointed by the errors and called for the product to be removed from shelves immediately.
Target, known for its dedication to diversity and inclusion, was quick to respond to the backlash. In a statement, the company announced that they would be pulling the product from all their stores and website and have informed the publisher, Bendon, of the mistake. “We will no longer be selling this product in stores or online. We’ve also ensured the product’s publisher is aware of the errors,” the statement read.
Woke Target can’t even get Black History Month right…
H/T @YourLibertyNews pic.twitter.com/LQFNhw4U4n
— Red Voice Media (@redvoicenews) February 3, 2024
It’s not the first time Target has faced backlash for its merchandise choices. Last year, the company faced criticism for its Pride Month collection, which included a kids swimsuit with a tag reading “thoughtfully fit on multiple body types and gender expressions.” Some customers and conservative activists called for a boycott of the store, causing their sales to drop for the first time in six years.
Even during the holiday season, Target wasn’t immune to controversy. They faced backlash for selling an ornament featuring a black Santa Claus in a wheelchair. Many saw this as an attempt to push a liberal agenda and promote diversity, but others saw it as a blatant disregard for traditional values.
Fox News does deep-dive investigative report, discovers Target is selling gay nutcracker and Black, disabled Santa. Prepare for far-right Republican outrage. (Video: Fox News) pic.twitter.com/Ic6kDCowEG
— Mike Sington (@MikeSington) November 17, 2023
It seems like Target just can’t catch a break. Not only do they consistently face backlash for their merchandise choices, but their sales are suffering as a result. It’s clear that their attempts at being a super progressive and inclusive retailer are not resonating with their customers. Perhaps they should stick to selling products rather than pushing a political agenda.
But it’s not just the customers who are questioning Target’s decisions. Experts are also weighing in on the controversy. Conservative commentator and journalist, Tomi Lahren, had this to say: “It’s just another example of the Left’s obsession with political correctness and inclusivity overshadowing accuracy and common sense. Target should focus on getting their products right rather than trying to please the liberal crowd.”
It seems like Target’s attempts at being a “woke” company are backfiring. Instead of attracting customers, they are repelling them. Maybe it’s time for them to take a step back and reassess their priorities.
