Target Apologizes For ‘Racist’ Halloween Costume

Target has pulled a children’s Halloween costume from its website and apologized after the product drew widespread criticism online for imagery that consumers said evoked Blackface and racist minstrel caricatures. The costume, sold as the “Kids’ Glows Under Blacklight Circus Clown Halloween Costume” under Target’s Hyde and EEK! Boutique brand, featured a dark face covering with an exaggerated smile, black gloves, and a small hat. The costume was modeled by a Black child, adding to the backlash over its resemblance to historical racist imagery. #Target is exactly who we thought they were pic.twitter.com/iTd7SuNUD8 — Etan Thomas (@etanthomas36) August 25, 2026 In a statement , Target acknowledged the backlash, calling the costume “offensive” and “hurtful.” “As a company, we know we got this wrong, and we are deeply sorry,” the Minneapolis-based retailer said. “The costume is offensive and should never have been part of our assortment. It is no longer available for sale. We know this is especially hurtful for our Black guests, team members and partners.” The company added that it is reviewing how the costume made it through its approval process and what changes are needed to prevent a similar incident. “Removing the costume is an important first step, and the company is looking closely at how this happened and what needs to change to ensure this won’t happen again,” it wrote. This is the latest controversy Target …