A conservative group has canceled a national boycott against Target after the retailer promised to make more references to Christmas and Hanukkah in its advertising.
Donald E. Wildmon, chairman of the Mississippi-based American Family Association, claimed victory by canceling the boycott Dec. 9 after Target assured customers “Christmas” advertising would increase as the holiday approaches.
“We are pleased to learn that Target has heard our concerns and decided to use Christmas in their advertising and marketing efforts,” Wildmon said in a statement. “We think you will see a different approach next year.”
Target said this year’s “Gather Round” theme was designed to encompass all aspects of the season and will specifically mention the individual holidays of a variety of faiths.
AFA called for the boycott in October after discovering Target planned to ban Salvation Army kettles from its sidewalks and the use of “Merry Christmas” in its advertising and in-store promotions. Nearly 700,000 supporters signed an Internet petition by Dec. 12, according to AFA.
Such consumers said Target represented the latest attempt by major retailers to secularize the Christian holiday.
Wal-Mart, Lowe’s, Macy’s and Walgreens reversed marketing decisions and specifically referenced “Christmas” rather than holiday” products after similar complaints.
Staples, Home Depot, JC Penny, Best Buy, Kohl's, Kmart and Office Max all make little or no reference to Christmas, activists say, and could be the next targets of consumer boycotts.
Religion News Service