Senator Zooey Zephyr, a transgender advocate from Montana, took a firm stance on the recent controversy surrounding Target’s removal of Pride merchandise from some of their stores. During an appearance on “The View,” Zephyr called on businesses to show solidarity “alongside us.”
Sara Haines, one of the hosts on “The View,” raised the issue to Senator Zephyr, asking for her thoughts on companies like Target facing backlash from conservatives and subsequently removing Pride Month merchandise from certain locations.
In response, Zephyr emphasized the importance of corporate support for the LGBTQ+ community, especially during times of crisis. Zephyr expressed the need for companies to understand the lived experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals who cannot simply choose to hide their identities.
Adding to the conversation, co-host Sunny Hostin chimed in, urging businesses to be good corporate citizens and stand up for equality, highlighting that it shouldn’t be a difficult decision.
Earlier this year, Zephyr faced a ban from the floor of the Montana State House for providing what was labeled as “hate-filled testimony” during a debate on a bill concerning transgender medical care for minors.
Within legislative discussions, the focus is often narrowed to specific aspects. However, Zephyr pointed out that the proponents of anti-trans and anti-LGBTQ+ laws have broader intentions. Zephyr expressed that they become agitated even at the sight of LGBTQ+ representation in places like Sports Illustrated, highlighting the opposition’s desire to suppress LGBTQ+ visibility and thriving in society.
In response to consumer backlash, certain Target stores in the southern region decided to remove Pride merchandise from prominent display areas. According to an insider, the move was influenced by concerns over negative reactions similar to those faced by Bud Light after featuring a transgender influencer in a recent promotion.
The insider disclosed that store employees were given a tight timeframe of 36 hours to relocate the Pride section to a smaller area. Restrictions were put in place, such as no merchandise on mannequins and limited signage, due to the company’s fear of potential repercussions.
Zephyr’s impassioned remarks earlier in the year were directed towards lawmakers who supported a bill limiting transgender youth’s access to medical treatments. They concluded their statement with a powerful sentiment, expressing the hope that those lawmakers would reflect on the consequences of their actions when they bow their heads in prayer.
The conversation on “The View” shed light on the ongoing struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community and the significance of corporate support in creating an inclusive society.
