During a comparison of Pride Month collections in June at Walmart and Target, it was noted that both retailers significantly reduced in-store LGBTQ+ items, opting to showcase collections primarily online. Political pressure and safety concerns for employees appear to have influenced these changes. Target announced a decrease in its offerings due to threats from anti-LGBTQ protesters, while Walmart's approach remained steady despite removing some merchandise from its website. This shift reflects the broader challenges companies face while trying to support inclusivity during contentious political times.
When I set out to compare Pride Month collections at Walmart and Target, I expected to see aisles full of rainbows and apparel with snappy slogans as I'd seen in previous years.
In 2023, Target said it was reducing its Pride collections due to "threats impacting our team members' sense of safety and well-being" from anti-LGBTQ protesters.
Walmart's chief marketing officer stated it hadn't received threats related to its line and didn't plan to pull any items, despite some removals from its website.
Both retailers appear to be keeping most of their Pride merchandise online amid political pressure, with offerings significantly limited in store.
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