Target removes Pride merchandise after violent threats to employees

Retail giant Target announced Wednesday that it is pulling some of its Pride Month merchandise after several of its employees experienced “confrontational behavior” from angry customers.

“Since introducing this year’s collection, we have experienced increased threats affecting our team members’ sense of safety and well-being while at work,” Target said in a statement.

Multiple videos posted to social media show customers Destroying Target’s Pride Month Display and heavily criticized the retail company for including LGBT+ apparel.

This included “tuck-friendly” bathing suit options and greeting cards that used inclusive language.

A Target spokesperson told wall street journal In addition to confronting staff, several angry customers made “threatening posts on social media with videos from inside the stores”.

“Given these volatile circumstances, we are making adjustments to our plans, including the removal of items that have been at the center of the most significant confrontational behavior. Our focus now turns to moving forward with our continued commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community.” And to stand with them as we celebrate Pride Month and throughout the year.

Independent The target for comments has been reached.

For years, Target has been recognized as a leader in providing inclusive clothing during Pride Month. Retail companies often begin showcasing products in May in preparation for Pride in June.

However, the decision to pull the merchandise due to critics has disappointed many in the company.

A Twitter user named Sean Collins wrote,” just got off the phone with Target (1-800-440-0680). Calmly explained that as the parent of a queer child whose pride means a lot, I cannot shop at a place that is willing to sacrifice such children to appease hate groups Be The customer service rep started crying, and so did I.”

John Cooper Tweeted, “It is extremely disappointing that Target is succumbing to threats of violence from anti-LGBTQ fanatics by removing a Pride Month display. If these extremists decide to attack demonstrations celebrating the next Black History Month, will Target remove them too?

Kelly Robinson, president of the Human Rights Campaign issued a statement Calling on Target to “Stand Firmly in Support of the LGBTQ+ Community”.

“Targets should not respond so easily to criticism and threats from the likes of the Proud Boys,” Ms. Robinhood said.

“Extremist groups and individuals work to divide us and ultimately don’t want Rainbow products to disappear, they want us to disappear. For the past decade, the LGBTQ+ community has celebrated Pride with Target—this It’s time Target stood by us and doubled down on its commitment to us.

Several Democratic politicians also criticized Target’s decision.

“CEO of Target Brian Cornell is a real profile in the courage it takes to sell extremists to the LGBTQ+ community. It’s not just a couple stores in the South. There is a systematic attack on the gay community happening across the country. California Governor Gavin Newsom tweeted.