A petition against Target by the conservative group One Million Moms is making its way through the internet, demanding the company cease its “demeaning” of Christmas by selling gay Santa and pride nutcracker themed merchandise. “Target Corporation has new LGBTQ Christmas products that are not only offensive but completely unnecessary,” the petition began. It later added that the retail giant had “made a deliberate decision to display controversial products instead of wholesome ones at Christmas – a Christian holiday.” “This is a terrible plan on Target’s part,” continued the petition, “especially at this time of year, the season that should be the most profitable time of year for companies.” The petition asked it signers to push Target to remove LGBTQ+ themed Christmas merchandise and to “remain neutral in the culture war.” As of this writing, the petition has nearly 16,000 signatures.

One of the figurines included in Target’s pride Christmas lineup is a “Pride Christmas Nutcracker Figure,” which includes white and black purple-bearded nutcrackers with purple wearing rainbow hats and holding a BIPOC-transgender pride flag. Another nutcracker figurine wears pride colors and a sequined Santa hat along with a “Love is Love” sign. A number of other nutcracker figures are featured with prominent pride flags. There is also a Santa figurine with the “Love is Love” shirt and pride flag. Target promotes the collection, with one blurb on an ornament announcing, “Whether you’re an ally, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, or simply someone who believes in love and equality for all, this ornament is the perfect way to showcase your support during the festive seasons With its vibrant colors and eye-catching design, this ‘Love is Love’ holiday ornament is sure to make a statement on your tree or as a gift to a loved one. Celebrate the season with love and pride, and show the world that love truly knows no bounds.”

Target has received a lot of backlash this year from conservatives, starting with viral videos of the transgender “tucking” clothing that could be found near the children’s section. Conservatives who were outraged by the LGBTQ+ affirming clothing found in or near the children’s section called for a boycott. Target revealed that the backlash hurt sales, and quietly removed Pride displays further back in the store, citing concerns over staff safety. Last month, there was further criticism from conservatives over the chain’s association with Abprallen, a brand that has been accused of using satanic imagery and encouraging violence against people who oppose transgender ideology. One product read “Satan respects pronouns,” while another item of clothing had the phrase “We Bash Back” with a heart-shaped mace bearing the colors of the trans flag.