Huge Retailer Faces Backlash From Conservative Group
One Million Moms, a conservative group, has initiated a protest against Target for its inclusion of LGBT-themed Christmas merchandise, like “gay Santas” and “pride nutcrackers.” This comes after previous controversies involving a designer known for satanic-themed apparel.
The group finds these items unsuitable for the Christmas season and is urging Target, through a petition, to discontinue their sale. They argue that these choices might drive away conservative customers, particularly during a Christian-centric holiday.
The merchandise causing the uproar includes a Pride Santa and a Pride Nutcracker, both featuring LGBTQ+ symbols and colors as part of Target’s Christmas décor. One Million Moms is concerned about how these items might influence children’s perceptions of sexual orientation and gender identity.
The group believes that Target’s decision to display controversial products during the crucial Christmas period could be detrimental. They are rallying conservative parents and consumers to express their disapproval, suggesting that Target’s choices might have adverse financial implications.
The petition has garnered over 14,800 signatures, highlighting a considerable level of dissatisfaction among a segment of the consumer base. This backlash follows Target’s prior criticism for featuring items from Abprallen, a brand associated with satanic-themed clothing.
Abprallen, led by Erik-James Carnell, who identifies with the LGBTQ+ community, designs products referencing Satan and LGBTQ+ themes. Target’s partnership with Abprallen, combined with previous marketing campaigns involving transgender influencers, has faced resistance, especially from conservative circles.
Target’s policy in 2016 allowing restroom use based on self-identified gender led to a boycott by conservative groups. They raised concerns about privacy and safety, highlighting incidents involving individuals in spaces traditionally designated for the opposite gender.
In response to customer concerns, certain Target stores, particularly in rural Southern areas, have relocated LGBT-themed merchandise to less prominent sections, aiming to mitigate potential controversies similar to past incidents faced by the brand.