Target recently been embroiled in controversy after facing backlash and boycott from conservative groups who criticized the company’s efforts to support an organization that helps teachers place LGBTQ books in school libraries and encourages educators to hide students’ gender transitions from parents.
The group’s partnership with GLSEN has come under scrutiny. Target donated more than $2.1 million to GLSEN over the past ten years, and its support of the group has led to a decrease in the company’s market capitalization.
The boycott was triggered by the retailer’s marketing of a female swimsuit as “tuck-friendly” and with “extra crotch coverage,” which many conservatives found inappropriate. They also criticized Target for hiring an artist who designs Satanic items to create various designs for the company. These moves have sparked outrage among many conservative groups, leading to a boycott against the popular retailer.
GLSEN runs the Rainbow Library initiative, which sends thousands of books with LGBTQ themes to schools, including sexually explicit volumes such as “Gender Queer” and “Lawn Boy.” The organization also advocates for incorporating LGBTQ ideology into every aspect of a school’s curriculum, including math lessons. However, the group has come under harsh criticism for encouraging educators to hide a student’s intention to undergo gender transition from their parents and other school employees.
Target’s support of GLSEN has been a significant factor in the current backlash against the company. The group’s donations have helped teachers across the country place LGBTQ books in school libraries, but have also led to accusations of promoting a particular agenda. While Target’s support for the community has been praised in some quarters, it has been met with opposition from those who disagree with GLSEN’s approach.
As a result of the backlash, Target’s market capitalization has dropped significantly, from $70.4 billion to $64.3 billion over the past week. The company’s executives have reportedly told leadership to make their “Pride Month” displays less prominent to avoid further backlash. While Target has not yet commented on the boycott, it has been suggested that the company may seek to distance itself from GLSEN in the future.
The current situation highlights the challenges faced by companies when seeking to support social causes. While many businesses have sought to take a more active role in promoting diversity and inclusion, they also face the risk of alienating customers who do not share their values. In this case, Target’s support for GLSEN has led to a significant drop in market capitalization and the threat of a long-term boycott.
The controversy surrounding Target highlights the complexities of navigating social issues in business. While many companies are eager to promote diversity and inclusion, they must also be mindful of the risks involved. Target’s relationship with GLSEN has led to significant backlash, and it remains to be seen how the company will address the situation going forward.
