Target reportedly plans to double down on LGBT merchandise, despite backlash to a line of gay-pride-themed kids clothing in June.
The retail chain hired Erik Thompson as Target’s “Senior LGBTQIA+ Segmentation & Pride Lead” as of November, according to LinkedIn. Thompson announced the new job in an Instagram post that appears to have since been deleted.
“Honored to get to start a new body of work and lead Target’s LGBTQIA+ multicultural merchandising strategy and Pride businesses for the company and the LGBTQIA+ & Allied communities across the the [sic] nation,” Thompson reportedly said in the post. (RELATED: Rachel Levine Praised Gender Clinic That Wants To Call Women ‘Egg Producers’ As ‘Inspiring’)
“Time to whip out the … Glitter & Hellfire … flamethrowers and rip that old world to shreds darlings.”
Welp. @Target has decided to make Santa Claus gay this year. Tuck-friendly swimsuits for kids weren’t enough. https://t.co/KLuKoYMIXF
— Erick Erickson (@EWErickson) November 21, 2023
Merchandise available on the website features a Santa Claus carrying a Pride flag and wearing a “Love is Love” t-shirt. The company is also selling a rainbow-themed Nutcracker and LGBT Christmas ornaments.
Target announced its “Pride Collection” in May, which included LGBT-themed onesies in newborn sizes and rainbow socks for kids. After backlash, the store removed some of its merchandise from the front of its stores. Target’s market value lost $9 billion in one week after unveiling the collection.