Wednesday, August 26, 2026 - 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.
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