Target removes Halloween costume after racial backlash

Target has removed a Halloween costume from sale after the product sparked online backlash over imagery that critics said resembled racist caricatures of Black people.

The costume, called the “Kids’ Glows Under Blacklight Circus Clown Halloween Costume Bodysuit,” featured a young Black child model and drew criticism on social media, with users questioning how the design passed the retailer’s review process.

Target confirmed it had removed the costume from its assortment and apologized for selling it. “We removed an offensive Halloween costume that should never have been part of our assortment,” the company said.

Target added, “As a company, we got this wrong, and we are deeply sorry.” The retailer also acknowledged the potential impact of the controversy on Black customers and employees, saying, “We know this is especially hurtful for our Black guests, team members and partners.”

Target said removing the costume was the first step and that it is reviewing how the product entered its assortment, as well as what changes may be needed to prevent a similar incident in the future. The controversy comes more than a year after Target faced criticism over changes to its diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.