Target is facing criticism for selling a Black History Month learning activity book that contains factual inaccuracies, particularly in the labeling of historic Black Americans. The issue was brought to light by a TikTok user, @Issatete, who shared a video showcasing the mislabeled content found in a Target store. The book, titled “Civil Rights,” is produced by children’s product retailer Bendon, and according to the TikTok user, features prominent Black figures mismatched with their corresponding photos.
Key Takeaway
Target is under scrutiny for selling a Black History Month book containing mislabeled images of prominent Black figures, prompting calls for immediate action and accountability.
Identifying the Errors
In the viral video, @Issatete highlights multiple instances of mislabeling within the book, expressing frustration and emphasizing that the errors go beyond mere oversight. As someone with a background in teaching U.S. history, she points out specific examples, such as the misidentification of Carter G. Woodson as Pan-Africanist civil rights activist W.E.B. Du Bois. Additionally, the book incorrectly labels educator and author Booker T. Washington, whose photo is actually that of Woodson. These discrepancies have sparked outrage and calls for immediate action.
Call for Accountability
@Issatete urges Target to take swift measures to address the issue, emphasizing that while mistakes can occur, it only takes one person to bring attention to them and request corrections. The TikTok user is calling for the removal of the product from Target's inventory until the inaccuracies are rectified. The public response to the video has echoed these sentiments, with many questioning the lack of proper proofreading before the book's release.
Response and Resolution
As the video gains traction, the publisher, Bendon, has yet to issue a response. While some individuals have speculated about the possibility of deliberate errors, such claims seem unlikely given the gravity of the mislabeling. The timing of this controversy, just before the commencement of Black History Month, has further intensified the scrutiny faced by both Target and the book’s publisher.
Efforts to obtain comments from Target and Bendon regarding the situation are currently underway, with no responses received thus far.
