Target pulls controversial Halloween costume after backlash
Target removed a children’s Halloween costume that critics said resembled minstrel-era racist imagery and issued an apology, while boycott activists continue to press the retailer on its diversity policies.
Target announced on Monday that it has withdrawn a children’s Halloween costume after it drew criticism on social media for evoking racist minstrel-show imagery. The company said the "Kids' Glows Under Blacklight Circus Clown" outfit, which featured a mask, top hat and gloves, was offensive and should never have been sold. > "As a company, we know we got this wrong, and we are deeply sorry. The costume is offensive and should never have been part of our assortment," Target said in a statement. The retailer also said it would review how the product was approved and take steps to prevent similar errors.
Critics, including Rev. Jamal Bryant, described the costume as a "profoundly harmful symbol of racism" and called for broader changes to Target’s decision-making processes. Activists in Minneapolis have maintained a boycott of the chain, urging the company to reinstate its former diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs, which were ended earlier this year.
Target’s shares have risen sharply this year, reaching a 52-week high in August after a turnaround plan that includes new store openings and a $2 billion investment plan for 2026. Retail analyst Bruce Winder noted that inventory missteps can occur at any retailer but praised Target’s rapid apology and product removal.
Boycott organizers, such as Nekima Levy Armstrong and Jaylani Hussein, said the costume controversy underscores their concerns about Target’s recent roll-back of DEI initiatives and warned that the incident could energize the ongoing protest.