national
Target Pulls Children's Halloween Costume and Issues Apology Following Criticism
Just the facts
Retailer Target Corporation withdrew a children's clown costume from store shelves and its website following public criticism on social media platforms that the outfit resembled minstrel show caricatures. The advertised product featured a Black child model wearing an orange and black top alongside solid black gloves and a wide-mouth mask. In an official corporate statement, Target acknowledged that the product selection was offensive and confirmed that an internal review was launched to inspect product procurement procedures. The Minneapolis-based retailer previously faced public attention following adjustments to its corporate diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.
Why this is news
Target Corporation announced on August 24, 2026, that it removed a children's Halloween costume from its inventory and issued a formal apology after public feedback highlighted similarities to a historic racial caricature. The product was marketed online as the Kids' Glows Under Blacklight Circus Clown Costume.
Sources
This summary is compiled strictly from the original reporting below.