Transgender Designer Criticizes Target For Pulling Pride Collection

Retail giant Target has listened to conservative criticism and removed some controversial PRIDE collection from its shelves after it was called out for its attempt to indoctrinate little children. However, some individuals have expressed disappointment and outrage at the decision.

Notable among them is transgender designer Eric Carnell, who says that Target’s action sets a dangerous precedent and reflects a disregard for the LGBT community.

Target had partnered with the U.K.-based brand Abprallen to offer a range of PRIDE-themed products for the month-long celebration. However, the collection faced a lot of backlash for targeting children with transgenderism and even Satanism.

In response to the controversy and complaints about the collection being marketed towards children, Target decided to remove all PRIDE displays from its stores, including Carnell’s collection which many parents found disturbing for its promotion of Satanism and the occult.

Expressing concern over Target’s decision to remove his collection, Carnell argued that the retail giant was caving to public pressure instead of standing by its initial commitment to support the LGBT community. 

“It’s a very dangerous precedent to set, that if people just get riled up enough about the products that you’re selling, you can completely distance yourself from the LGBT community, when and if it’s convenient,” he said to Reuters.

Target, however, continues to stand by its latest decision, saying that it doesn’t mean it has turned its back on the LGBTQ+ community. Spokesperson Kayla Castaneda explained the removal by highlighting the threats and confrontational behavior experienced by the company’s team members. 

Hence, the company made the decision to remove items that faced the most backlash.

While it took a step back and made an attempt to correct its step, Target faced significant consequences for its attempt to market the controversial LGBTQ-themed merchandise. 

Recent widespread boycotts have led to a staggering loss of over $10 billion for the retail giant in just one week as it sits on the boycott bench with Bud Lite and Kohl’s who have also taken a hit for similar reasons.

If there is anything the removal of the controversial collection did, it is getting Target caught between the demands of both conservatives and progressives. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen if the company will face the challenge of rebuilding its reputation or if it will go to such extremes in pandering to the left once again. 

Whichever way it plays out, it is clear where the brand’s allegiance lies as Castaneda reiterated Target’s ongoing commitment to the LGBTQ+ community, pledging support during Pride Month and throughout the year.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR