Target Faces Backlash Over Halloween Costume

Target has issued an apology regarding a Halloween costume of a circus clown that many criticized for resembling Blackface and the minstrel shows of the 19th century, following a wave of outrage on social media.

The costume, labeled as the “Kids’ Glows Under Blacklight Circus Clown Halloween Costume,” was part of the retailer’s seasonal Hyde and EEK Boutique brand but has since been removed from listings.

In a statement, company spokesperson Brian Harper-Tibaldo expressed regret, acknowledging the mistake, stating that the costume was indeed offensive and should not have been presented for sale. “This is particularly hurtful to our Black guests, team members, and partners,” he added. He noted that the removal of the costume is just the beginning as they evaluate how this incident occurred and what changes are necessary to prevent similar issues in the future.

The decision to withdraw the costume was prompted by online criticism, where some accused the Minneapolis-based retailer of promoting racist products.

One user on Threads remarked, “You really don’t have anyone left in Minneapolis to say, ‘Hey, that’s racist’? Y’all cut DEI and now you’ve got a minstrel clown costume for kids on your website.”

This incident adds to a series of challenges for Target, which recently faced declining sales due to missteps that included the handling of its Pride Collection in 2023 and the reduction of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts after former President Donald Trump returned to office.

Following a series of executive orders from Trump aimed at limiting DEI initiatives, Target scaled back its programs focused on enhancing the representation of Black employees and supporting Black-owned businesses. They cited a need to adapt to “the evolving external landscape.” This shift has drawn criticism from various Black consumers and business owners who had previously supported Target’s diversity initiatives.