Target pulls costume critics say evoked Blackface, minstrel shows

Target pulled a Halloween costume from its online marketplace Monday after critics said it looked like a minstrel show character.

The image of “Kids’ Glows Under Blacklight Circus Clown Halloween Costume” was shared side-by-side with racist imagery popular in the 19th century, with social media users pointing out similar hand gestures, clothing styles and enlarged smile.

In a Monday statement, the Minnesota-based retailer apologized for the costume, stating that “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.”

“We know this is especially hurtful for our Black guests, team members and partners,” it continued.

The retailer said it would investigate how the costume ended up on its storefront and “what needs to change to ensure this won’t happen again.”

“Removing the costume is an important first step,” Target said.

The costume was from Target’s Hyde & EEK! Boutique line and featured an black-and-orange body suit with an exaggerated smile face mask resembled blackface.

Minstrel shows were often performed by white performers with blackened faces, wearing tattered clothing and imitating enslaved Africans on Southern plantations.

This racial stereotyping, according to the National Museum of African American History and Culture influenced racial stereotyping throughout the century as the caricature continued into the modern era, including “the increased popularity of ‘black’ Halloween costumes.”

Target was among the companies which, early in President Trump’s second term, scaled back its diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives – including a program to help Black employees build meaningful careers at the company and another promoting businesses owned by minority groups.

Target did not respond to The Hill’s request for comment on the ongoing investigation.