Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, a Democrat, penned a letter to Target expressing concerns about the company’s decision to remove Pride merchandise from select stores, warning that it could encourage bullying and empower “hateful” tactics.
Ellison co-led an open letter signed by 15 attorneys general, addressing Target’s action in response to consumer backlash. The letter suggested that civil rights laws could be invoked to defend the retail giant.
Target faced criticism for its Pride Month displays, featuring rainbow and LGBTQ+ messaging, including new products like swimsuits designed for individuals who wish to “tuck” male genitalia.
Additionally, Target removed items from designer Erik Carnell’s brand, Abprallen, which some label as “Satanic.” Abprallen’s apparel includes satanic imagery such as pentagrams, horned skulls, and references to the devil. One design displayed the message: “Satan respects pronouns.” Although these items were reportedly not part of Target’s Pride collection, they garnered attention.
The letter highlighted various “politically motivated attacks” on LGBTQIA+ Americans, such as restrictions on gender-affirming care for minors and laws prohibiting transgender individuals from using bathrooms or participating in sports based on their gender identity. It also mentioned limitations on drag performances.
According to the letter, consumers opposing Target’s transgender-related products do not represent the broader American society. The letter argued that Pride merchandise like Target’s helps LGBTQIA+ individuals feel supported and demonstrates that the views of fringe voices and bullies do not align with society at large. The letter acknowledged Target’s concerns for worker and customer safety, which led to the removal of some Pride merchandise.
However, the letter cautioned Target that yielding to consumer outrage could send a message that hateful and disruptive behavior can force large corporations to comply with their demands, influencing the comfort of LGBTQIA+ consumers both in Target stores and within society. The attorneys general commended Target’s commitment to LGBTQIA+ equality but expressed fear that the removal of Pride merchandise could hinder progress in the face of intense attacks on LGBTQIA+ equality nationwide.
The letter concluded by emphasizing that existing civil rights laws not only protect individuals from discrimination but also impose “obligations” on corporations. While acknowledging that retailers are not legally obliged to offer specific merchandise or displays, the letter urged Target to consider its obligations under these laws and to treat all customers equally when responding to backlash against its Pride merchandise.