Retail giant Target has been in the throws of controversy for the last week over its choice of merchandise in honor of Pride month which has cost the company billions of dollars and backlash on all sides.
The merchandise, initially introduced in collaboration with U.K.-based brand Abprallen triggered a wave of consumer outrage, particularly regarding the overtly extravagant displays aimed at children.
Complicating matters further, it was discovered that Abprallen’s designer, Erik Carnell, openly identifies as a Satanist and incorporates occult imagery and statements like “Satan respects pronouns” in the brand’s apparel.
In response to the widespread backlash, Target swiftly took action, relocating some Pride products to less prominent sections within its stores and even removing certain items from its inventory altogether.
However, critics argue that Target’s decision sets a dangerous precedent. Carnell expressed his discontent, cautioning against the retailer’s willingness to distance itself from the LGBTQ community when confronted with public backlash.
“It’s a very dangerous precedent to set, that if people just get riled up enough about the products that you’re selling, you can completely distance yourself from the LGBT community, when and if it’s convenient,” Carnell said to Reuters.
“If you’re going to take a stance and say that you care about the LGBT community, you need to stand by that regardless,” Carnell added.
Related: Censured Trans Lawmaker Sends Ominous Warning to Target After it Pulls LGBT Merch from Shelves
Carnell, in an Instagram post, explained his interpretation of Satanism.
“Satan loves you and respects who you are; you’re important and valuable in this world and you deserve to treat yourself with love and respect,” Carnell said.
“LGBT+ people are so often referred to as being a product of Satan or going against God’s will, so fine. We’ll hang with Satan instead,” he continued.
Carnell claims that Satanism serves as a symbol, not a literal belief in Satan.
“Satanists don’t actually believe in Satan, he is merely used as a symbol of passion, pride, and liberty. He means to you what you need him to mean. So for me, Satan is hope, compassion, equality, and love,” he said.
Therefore, Carnell claims “Satan respects pronouns. He loves all LGBT+ people.”
In fact, the products featured on Target’s website from Abprallen, such as a messenger bag with the phrase “Too queer for here” and a sweatshirt promoting an end to transphobia, did not include any Satanic imagery.
However, as of Friday, Abprallen products are no longer available on the site, much to Carnell’s disappointment. He lamented that his brand’s products were the only ones subjected to removal, both in-store and online.
Target provided a response to the controversy, clarifying the rationale behind its decision to make adjustments and remove specific items.
“For more than a decade, Target has offered an assortment of products aimed at celebrating Pride Month. Since introducing this year’s collection, we’ve faced threats that have compromised our team members’ sense of safety and well-being while at work,” the spokesperson said.
“In light of these volatile circumstances, we are making adjustments to our plans, including removing items that have been at the center of the most significant confrontational behavior,” the spokesperson continued. “Our focus now is on moving forward with our unwavering commitment to the LGBTQIA+ community, standing by them as we celebrate Pride Month and throughout the year.”
Carnell told Reuters that he has been subjected to hate messages and even death threats in response to the controversy. He expressed disappointment at Target’s lack of communication on the matter.
The fallout from this controversy has had significant repercussions for Target. The company’s market capitalization taken a huge hit, and rank-and-file employees have voiced their dissatisfaction with the retailer.
One Target insider commented, “Whether you’re on the right and felt left behind from the start, or if you previously felt a sense of belonging, those in the LGBTQ community may now question if they are still truly welcome.”
RELATED: Ex Anheuser-Busch Exec Reveals How Companies Are Pressured to Go Woke: Follow The Money