Retain chain Target recently removed a number of LGBT-themed items from their stores following a significant public outcry. This attempted to prevent a similar consumer backlash that seriously reduced Bud Light’s sales after a controversial marketing deal. However, an internal memo reveals that Target is still championing left-wing causes.
Target lost $9 billion in value since the unveiling of its “PRIDE” line of items, including LGBT-related issues marketed to children.
The company’s stock fell 12% since the announcement. In particular, many conservatives criticized items from a British company, Abprallen, which included occult and satanic references. The company agreed to remove the items and moved a number of displays.
However, an internal memo released by the retail giant indicates that it has not fully moved away from left-leaning political causes.
The company wrote to employees that the recent decision to remove the items and marketing was a “very hard day for Target.”
The document also said that the anniversary of the death of George Floyd “brings more reflection, pain, and the need for continued care.”
The company reminds employees to “make space to take care of yourself and each other” and listed a number of mental health resources underneath.
Following the statement, the company posted a photo of a mural depicting Floyd.
BREAKING: I have obtained the internal email that @Target sent to their employees following the Pride month disaster that has caused them to lose $9B in one week, where is goes from standing with the "LGBTQIA+ community" to the anniversary of George Floyd lmfao. pic.twitter.com/GQVgrdmHDv
— Greg Price (@greg_price11) May 25, 2023
The memo followed comments from Target’s CEO Brian Cornell in which he stated that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) goals were “adding value.”
Furthermore, when asked directly about “woke” marketing, the CEO said that the company’s approach consisted of “good business decisions,” calling them “the right thing for society” and a “great thing for our brand.”
Target agreed to shelve much of its “PRIDE” marketing following the backlash.
The company claimed that there were “threats impacting our team members’ sense of safety and well-being while at work.”
Target also said that it was “making adjustments to our plans, including removing items that have been at the center of the most significant confrontational behavior.”
The retail giant’s decision came after a dramatic decline in Bud Light sales after the beer brand announced a partnership with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney.
