Walmart recently apologized for their Juneteenth ice cream but kept similar-themed items on their shelves.
According to reports, the supermarket giant has been selling numerous Juneteenth-themed items in its stores, including Pan-African-colored party supplies such as cups, napkins, plates, cutlery, and t-shirts books.
On its official website, there are also a variety of shirts emblazoned with images inspired by the federal holiday created in honor of the emancipation of enslaved African-Americans.
Earlier in May, Black Twitter called Walmart out for releasing a Juneteenth ice cream via its budget brand Great Value, which came in a Pan-African colored tin that featured two brown hands high-fiving each other. The ice cream was reportedly described as “a swirled red velvet and cheesecake,” and its packaging said the sweet treat was intended to “share and celebrate African-American culture, emancipation, and enduring hope.”
Walmart was even accused of stealing the ice cream concept from a Black-owned business sold in its stores called Creamlicious.
As a result, the company has since issued an apology and removed the frozen snack from their stores.
“Juneteenth holiday marks a celebration of freedom and independence,” its representatives said in a statement to FOX. “However, we received feedback that a few items caused concern for some of our customers, and we sincerely apologize. We are reviewing our assortment and will remove items as appropriate.”
However, Walmart isn’t the only brand that has been capitalizing on the holiday. The Dollar Tree recently shared an image of their Juneteenth selection via their Twitter page.
“Hosting a Juneteenth event this year? Check out our new Juneteenth party supplies, tableware, and more for a celebration to remember,” they tweeted. Items included Pan-African cups, plates, cutlery, and napkins that were advertised in front of balloons of the date 1865.
Hosting a Juneteenth event this year? Check out our new Juneteenth party supplies, tableware, and more for a celebration to remember. https://t.co/dQZbheGwm2 pic.twitter.com/sZR5mBfQfE
— Dollar Tree (@DollarTree) May 23, 2022
Dollar Tree has since removed the items from the website.
