As Juneteenth quickly approaches, large corporations search for ways to honor the celebration but, one is already facing backlash. Over the weekend, a photo of Walmart’s new ice cream in celebration of the holiday started to circulate with people feeling torn about the gesture. Folks did not hold their tongues to share their thoughts on Walmart’s move.
Comments poured in, calling out the corporation for not amplifying a Black owned ice cream brand. Some also commented about the company’s low wages conflicting with their intention. According to Fox 11, after reviewing the thoughts of those online, the company has since issued a formal apology and said they will be removing “items as appropriate.”
They said in their full statement:
“Juneteenth holiday marks a celebration of freedom and independence. However, we received feedback that a few items caused concern for some of our customers, and we sincerely apologize. We are reviewing our assortment and will remove items as appropriate.”
Red velvet ice cream isn't a new concept; however, Walmart should've worked with a Black brand if they're going to do something for Juneteenth (that, and pay their employees a living wage, but ANYWAY)
— you (@MissZindzi) May 23, 2022
Walmart can go to hell with that Juneteenth ice cream. Cause who is that even for? Y’all really be playing in our face led.
— JessiP (@Mrs_JessiP) May 23, 2022
What in the Walmart world is this? pic.twitter.com/RrrXR15CSD
— KimberlyYayyyy! (@KimberlyYayyyy) May 22, 2022
Joe Biden Signs Bill Declaring Juneteenth A National Holiday
As previously reported last June, President Joe Biden officially signed into law a bill that declared June 19th a National Independence Day. At the time of the signing, Biden said,
“By making Juneteenth a federal holiday, all Americans can feel the power of this day and learn from our history—and celebrate progress and grapple with the distance we’ve come (and) the distance we have to travel.”
Walmart is not the first major corporation to face backlash after trying to incorporate Juneteenth into its brand.
Last year, Ikea faced backlash after a Juneteenth menu was put together at one of their Atlanta locations. The company faced backlash as the menu consisted of food items such as fried chicken and watermelon. A spokesperson for the company later issued an apology and added, “We are committed to educating ourselves and putting a process in place that will allow us to thoughtfully honor Juneteenth in the future.”
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TSR STAFF: Jade Ashley @Jade_Ashley94
