Target Pulls Product After Major Problems Were Discovered
Target, one of America’s largest retail chains, pulled an educational product from its shelves and website this week after a TikTok video went viral pointing out some major errors.
Las Vegas high school teacher, Tierra Espy, posted a video on Tuesday showing that a Black History Month magnetic activity had misidentified three prominent Civil Rights leaders. The video received immense attention, with thousands expressing their shock and frustration on social media.
The magnetic learning activity, made by Ohio-based children’s publisher, Bendon, featured photos of Carter G. Woodson, W.E.B. DuBois, and Booker T. Washington, three of the most significant figures in African American history. However, their names were incorrectly placed under the wrong pictures. Woodson’s name was featured under DuBois’ photo, Washington’s name appeared under Woodson’s photo, and DuBois’ name appeared under Washington’s photo. Espy pointed out the discrepancies in her video, stating that these products need to be “pulled off the shelves immediately.”
Espy, who teaches U.S. history, explained that she had purchased the product in hopes of teaching her students about Black History Month. Upon opening the product, she was surprised to find the errors and felt compelled to bring it to everyone’s attention. “I get it; mistakes happen, but this needs to be corrected ASAP,” added Espy.
Target responded to the incident by releasing a statement saying, “We will no longer be selling this product in stores or online. We’ve also ensured that the publisher is aware of the errors.” This swift action by the retail giant has been praised by many, who have deemed it responsible and necessary. The product appeared to be sold exclusively by Target, and it is unclear whether it was available in other stores.
Woke Target can't even get Black History Month right...
H/T @YourLibertyNews pic.twitter.com/LQFNhw4U4n
— Red Voice Media (@redvoicenews) February 3, 2024
This is not the first time Target has come under fire for its products. Last year, the company faced backlash over its Pride Month collection, which featured merchandise with tags reading “thoughtfully fit on multiple body types and gender expressions.” In addition to these gender-themed items, the merchandising giant also sold books with titles such as “The Pronoun Book” and “Bye Bye Binary.” Parents expressed disapproval over these products, claiming that they are brainwashing their children with gender ideology.
Experts believe that the outrage over these products may have affected Target’s sales. The company’s sales dropped for the first time in six years, by 5.4% in the second quarter of last year. The Pride Month collection faced the brunt of the criticism, and many people, including parents, called for a boycott of Target’s products. Last year, around the Christmas holidays, the chain also attracted criticism for selling an ornament featuring a black Santa Claus in a wheelchair.
As the country grapples with issues of race, gender, and identity, companies like Target must be vigilant and careful about the products they put on their shelves. The Black History Month product fiasco was avoidable, and it is up to companies to ensure that they do not make the same mistake again.
While it is commendable that Target acted promptly and pulled the product, it is equally important that they acknowledge their mistake and take steps to prevent such blunders in the future.