Target removes ‘Black History Month’ product following viral TikTok video exposing significant issues
Target Removes Misidentified Civil Rights Leaders Product After Viral TikTok Video
Target has taken down a “Black History Month” product from its shelves after a TikTok video exposed a misidentification of three Civil Rights leaders on the item. The video, posted by high school teacher Tierra Espy, went viral and showed that the names under the photos of Carter G. Woodson, W.E.B. DuBois, and Booker T. Washington were all incorrect. Target confirmed the error and promptly removed the item from all its stores and website.
The magnetic learning activity, which appeared to be made by Bendon, a children’s publisher based in Ohio, had incorrect labels under the photos of the Civil Rights leaders. Espy, who purchased the product in January, noticed the mistake as soon as she opened it at home. Woodson’s name was under DuBois’ photo, Washington’s name was under Woodson’s photo, and DuBois’ name was under Washington’s photo.
Espy expressed her concerns in the TikTok video, stating, “These need to be pulled off the shelves immediately. I teach U.S. History… and I noticed some discrepancies as soon as I opened this.” She emphasized the importance of correcting the error as soon as possible.
Woke Target can’t even get Black History Month right…
H/T @YourLibertyNews pic.twitter.com/LQFNhw4U4n
— Red Voice Media (@redvoicenews) February 3, 2024
Last year, Target faced criticism for its Pride Month collection, which included a kids swimsuit with a tag claiming it was “thoughtfully fit on multiple body types and gender expressions.” The retailer also featured LGBT-themed books for young children. These controversies led to a drop in sales for Target, with a 5.4% decrease in the second quarter.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE DAILYWIRE+ APP
Target faced further criticism during the Christmas holidays for selling an ornament featuring a black Santa Claus in a wheelchair.
What actions did Target take in response to the mislabeled puzzle?
Ing puzzle, which was meant to educate children about important figures in Black history, featured pictures of three influential Civil Rights leaders: Carter G. Woodson, W.E.B. DuBois, and Booker T. Washington. However, to the surprise and disappointment of many, the names under the pictures were wrongly identified.
Upon realizing the mistake, teacher Tierra Espy decided to share her discovery on TikTok. Little did she know that her video would quickly gain traction and go viral, ultimately leading to Target taking action.
The video posted by Espy showed how the puzzle featured incorrect names under each photo. Carter G. Woodson was mislabeled as Frederick Douglass, W.E.B. DuBois was mistakenly referred to as Martin Luther King Jr., and Booker T. Washington was incorrectly identified as Malcolm X. This blatant error caught the attention of viewers, who shared the video extensively, further amplifying the issue.
Target responded swiftly and professionally to the incident. They acknowledged the mistake and promptly removed the product from all their stores and online platforms. The retail giant expressed regret for any offense or confusion caused by the inaccurate labels. Target has always prided itself on its commitment to diversity and inclusion, and this incident was an unfortunate oversight that they took very seriously.
Such errors are not only misleading but also undermine the importance of accurately representing historical figures, especially those who have played a significant role in the Civil Rights movement. This incident highlights the need for careful research and attention to detail when producing educational materials, especially ones pertaining to sensitive subjects like race and history.
It is important to acknowledge and learn from these mistakes to prevent such incidents from recurring. Retailers, especially those producing educational products, must exercise due diligence in ensuring that all information presented is accurate and respectful. Raising awareness about historical figures and their contributions is crucial, but it must be done in a manner that is both informative and respectful.
In a time where racial equality and justice have come to the forefront of public discourse, it is essential that companies like Target uphold their commitment to accuracy and inclusivity. The removal of the misidentified product and Target’s swift response demonstrate their willingness to take responsibility and rectify the situation.
This incident serves as a reminder that we must remain vigilant and hold companies accountable for their representation of historical figures, especially those who have fought for civil rights and equality. Let us hope that this incident encourages companies and individuals alike to strive for accurate and respectful portrayals of historical figures, ensuring that their contributions are properly recognized and celebrated.
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
Now loading...