Target refuses to sell Pride-themed onesie to gay couple
A gay couple in Florida were left disappointed and angered after being told they couldn’t purchase a Pride-themed onesie for their infant son at a local Target store. Michael Hoffacker and Michael Roedel were shopping for baby formula, diapers and clothes at the Lake Park branch when they noticed the yellow onesie with the words “Bien Proud” on the front. However, despite having a barcode and price tag, they were refused purchase due to the item allegedly being marked with a “Do Not Sell” label. Target had recently faced backlash for announcing the removal of some LGBTQ-friendly children’s clothing from stores, a decision opposed by around 200 advocacy groups.
FAQs:
What is the controversy surrounding Target and LGBTQ+ clothing?
Target recently announced the removal of some LGBTQ-friendly children’s clothing from stores, which drew criticism from around 200 advocacy groups. The decision was made after customer backlash, with the company stating it had experienced threats impacting the safety and well-being of employees while at work.
Why were Michael Hoffacker and Michael Roedel unable to purchase the Pride-themed onesie at Target?
The couple were told at the checkout line that the item should have been pulled from the shelves and was marked with a “Do Not Sell” label. After speaking to a manager and calling the company, they were informed that nothing could be done.
What did Michael Hoffacker do in response to the incident?
Hoffacker wrote a letter to Target, including its CEO, calling for the company to reverse its decision to pull some items ahead of Pride month. He expressed his disappointment and called for the company to “be a better ally” to the LGBTQ+ community.
Gay couple denied purchase of Pride-themed onesie at Target store.
A gay couple has accused Target of refusing to sell them a Pride-themed onesie for their infant son at a store in Lake Park, Florida. Michael Hoffacker and Michael Roedel said employees informed them that the outfit should have been removed from the shelves, following the retail giant’s announcement that it would withdraw some LGBTQ+ friendly children’s clothing in response to customer dissatisfaction. Some 200 advocacy groups criticized the move. The couple said they were told to call an 800-number to plead their case, but a representative told them nothing could be done. The company’s decision has impacted its value, falling by over $15bn, since it sparked boycotts.