Target faces renewed backlash after selling a Halloween costume with 'minstrel show features'
Summary
Target removed a children's Halloween costume after people criticized it for resembling racist minstrel show imagery. The company apologized and said it is reviewing how the costume was approved to prevent future mistakes. This incident occurred as Target is recovering financially and making changes in leadership and store operations.Key Facts
- Target pulled a Halloween clown costume that many said looked like racist minstrel show characters.
- The costume featured gloves, a top hat, and a mask with large teeth, which critics linked to harmful stereotypes.
- Target apologized, calling the costume offensive and pledging to learn from the mistake.
- The retailer ended a diversity and inclusion program in January 2025 and replaced it with a "Belonging" strategy.
- Activists have called for Target boycotts, which led to significant drops in the company’s stock value last year.
- Target’s stock has risen about 63% in 2025 as the company focuses on store upgrades, better staffing, and pricing strategies.
- New CEO Michael Fiddelke is leading Target’s turnaround, including plans to open new stores and remodel many locations.
- Retail experts say mistakes in merchandise selection can happen even to large companies, but quick response is important.
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