KOHL's PRIDE Market

Kohl’s, a department store, is facing backlash from customers over its Pride-themed clothing line, leading to threats of a boycott. The retailer recently launched its LGBT+ clothing range in honor of Pride Month, featuring items such as hats, shirts, and pants adorned with the Pride flag colors. However, some shoppers took to social media to express their concerns, particularly focusing on a grey onesie for babies. Critics questioned why Kohl's was selling Pride-themed clothing for infants and called for a boycott of the store. A viral video on Twitter showcased a customer reviewing the Pride collection and criticizing its appropriateness for children. These events drew comparisons to Bud Light and Target, both of which faced criticism and backlash for their LGBTQ+ partnerships and merchandise. Despite the controversy, many people have praised Kohl's for its Pride merchandise and have condemned those calling for a boycott. On a separate note, Target also faced backlash and made adjustments to its Pride Month merchandise due to threats and inappropriate behavior towards its employees. The specific items removed were not specified, but it was reported that items from British designer Erik Carnell's LGBTQ+-focused brand, Abprallen, were pulled from the store. Carnell expressed disappointment with the decision, stating that the merchandise was intended for the adult section and not for children.

Kohl's, a popular department store, has recently found itself in the midst of controversy over its Pride-themed clothing line. The retailer introduced a new range of LGBT+ apparel in celebration of Pride Month, featuring items like hats, shirts, and pants adorned with the vibrant colors of the Pride flag. However, some customers took to social media to express their discontent, specifically targeting a gray onesie designed for babies. This particular item drew criticism for its perceived promotion of LGBTQ+ identities to very young children.

Twitter users voiced their concerns, calling for a boycott of Kohl's and questioning the brand's decision to sell Pride merchandise targeted at infants. One online commentator, ALX, shared a picture of the onesie, sarcastically remarking that Kohl's had attire suitable for "Gay or Trans 3 month old" babies. The sentiment quickly spread, with others echoing the call to boycott Kohl's and expressing disbelief at the store's product offerings for young children.

A video shared by Twisted Luck INC on Twitter captured a customer's visit to a Kohl's store, where they showcased the Pride-themed children's and baby items. The customer deemed the clothing and accessories, including a rainbow shirt with explanations of LGBTQIA+ terminology and a rainbow tutu, as inappropriate for children. The video also highlighted other Pride merchandise, such as a mug displaying the message "Be Proud of Who You Are." These instances further fueled the debate surrounding the appropriateness of such products for young audiences.

Critics drew comparisons between Kohl's and Bud Light, which had recently faced backlash for partnering with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney. Additionally, Kohl's faced juxtaposition with Target, as the retail giant had removed certain Pride collection items due to customer criticism and threats towards its staff. Consumers voiced their opinions on social media, with some supporting Kohl's for its inclusive merchandise and criticizing those calling for a boycott.

While the controversy surrounding Kohl's Pride collection unfolded, Target also dealt with its own challenges. In response to inappropriate behavior and threats towards its employees, Target announced adjustments to its Pride Month merchandise, without specifying which items would be removed. Reuters reported that products from British designer Erik Carnell's LGBTQ+-focused brand, Abprallen, were among those pulled from the store. Carnell, a transgender and gay designer, expressed disappointment, condemning the backlash and clarifying that the merchandise was intended for the adult section, not children.

As both Kohl's and Target faced criticism and had to navigate the delicate balance between inclusivity and customer backlash, the debate around the visibility and appropriateness of LGBTQ+ merchandise continues. While some customers supported the retailers' efforts and encouraged them to stand their ground, others found fault in the marketing and availability of such items for young children. The situation highlights the ongoing conversation about representation, acceptance, and the commercialization of Pride Month.