Target is facing criticism that a T-shirt for sale online and in the women’s juniors department is sexist and demeaning, according to 6 ABC. The black T-shirt has the word “trophy” written on it in big, white lettering.
Upset shoppers have taken to social media to express their opinions on the store’s decision to sell the “Strand Trophy Wife Graphic Tee Black”—particularly to young women. Many are calling for the retail giant to remove the T-shirt from the racks.
One shopper also created the “Stop Selling Sexist ‘Trophy’ Shirt That Demeans Women” petition on Change.org, which has a goal of 1,000 signatures. The petition argues that using the word trophy in reference to women “encourages a rape culture where women are merely objects, not humans, to be used for men’s pleasure.”
When shoppers started to raise their concerns on Facebook, Target commented on the posts, thanking the individual for the concern, apologizing for any offense and saying the feedback would be shared with the proper channels.
“It is never our intention to offend anyone and we always appreciate receiving feedback from our guests,” Molly Snyder, Target representative, said in an official statement to USA Today. “The shirt you’re describing is part of a collection of engagement and wedding shirts that are available in our women’s and plus size departments. The collection also included shirts that say ‘Team Bride,’ ‘Mrs.’ and ‘Bride.’ These shirts are intended as a fun wink and we have received an overwhelmingly positive response from our guests.”
The shirt remains on sale for $12.99 at Target.
