Experience the revolution of consciousness. Skittles is facing criticism from conservatives who are disenchanted with the candy’s new “woke” pro-LGBTQ packaging. This backlash could potentially result in a boycott similar to the one that severely impacted Anheuser-Busch’s profits after Bud Light partnered with transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney. A user on Libs of TikTok tweeted, “@Skittles is attempting to indoctrinate your children into the BLM & LGBTQ+ movements. Their packaging even features a drag queen. Skittles has completely embraced the woke culture.” Another Twitter user, InnerPeaceKarma, simply stated, “Boycott Skittles. It’s that simple.” Astonishingly, this post has garnered 1.8 million views so far.
The controversy arose when Skittles’ parent company, the Wrigley Company, which is owned by Mars Incorporated, replaced their traditional rainbow-colored packaging with new illustrations and messages that support LGBTQ+ rights. The new packaging predominantly features black and white designs accompanied by phrases like “Black Trans Lives Matter” and “Joy is Resistance,” as reported by Newsweek. Skittles intended to promote inclusivity and tolerance through their new pro-LGBTQ packaging and messaging. However, conservative individuals have reacted unfavorably, calling for a boycott of the beloved candy, mirroring the Bud Light boycott triggered by their association with Mulvaney.
These revamped Skittles were created in collaboration with the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD), marking the fourth consecutive year that the candy company has partnered with the organization to encourage acceptance and inclusiveness. While many brands have been advocating for similar causes for years, conservatives have recently singled out and protested against these initiatives. This was most evident in the widespread boycott of Bud Light, which has resulted in a substantial decrease in profits for Anheuser-Busch, estimated to be as high as $4 billion.
Notably, Florida’s Disney World theme park and Target stores have also faced backlash from anti-gay groups. Skittles seems to have become the latest target of conservative activism. Mark’s Incorporated, the parent company of Skittles, has collaborated with pro-LGBTQ advocates to promote tolerance and inclusion. However, conservatives have not been receptive to this message and are now calling for a boycott akin to the one experienced by Bud Light.
Responding to the criticism, Twitter user Phoenix2A remarked, “It’s time to treat Skittles the same way Budweiser was treated.” Another commenter echoed this sentiment, stating, “It’s time to Bud Light them.” Melissa Harris, the Vice President of Strategic Partnerships for GLAAD, defended the collaboration between the organization and Skittles. In a statement, Harris expressed, “Skittles’ ongoing support and partnership with us assists in advancing our critical mission to facilitate dialogue that results in cultural change. Their initiative this year to highlight LGBTQ+ stories is a profound effort that can significantly increase awareness, support, and acceptance for the LGBTQ+ community while also promoting diversity and inclusion.”
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