Target, the major U.S. retail chain known for its wide range of clothing, home goods and everyday products, has removed a Halloween costume after its design sparked strong backlash over racial concerns online. The controversy has now raised questions about how the costume was approved in the first place.
Target apologized after critics called the Halloween costume racially offensive
The costume, called the “Kids’ Glows Under Blacklight Circus Clown Halloween Costume Bodysuit,” featured a young Black child model. Critics online said the design and imagery resembled racist caricatures of Black people, leading many to question how it made it through Target’s review process, as reported by TMZ.
Target has since removed the costume from its assortment and apologized for the product. “We removed an offensive Halloween costume that should never have been part of our assortment,” the company said.
Target also confirmed that the costume is no longer available for sale and acknowledged that it had made a mistake.
“As a company, we got this wrong, and we are deeply sorry.”
The retailer also addressed the impact the controversy could have on its Black customers and employees. “We know this is especially hurtful for our Black guests, team members and partners,” Target said.
The company said removing the costume was only the first step. Target is now reviewing how the product became part of its assortment. The company is also looking at changes that could prevent a similar situation in the future.
The controversy comes more than a year after Target faced criticism for scaling back some of its diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.
