PetSmart is the latest company to face backlash for offering LGBTQ-themed merchandise before the start of Pride Month with their “You Are Loved” collection. A donation to the trans activist group GLSEN drew the most ire about the campaign.
PetSmart announced on its website, “We proudly support the LGBTQ+ community with a $200,000 donation to GLSEN. Celebrate the spirit of Pride with your pet!” In a press release on May 2, they added, “This marks the fourth consecutive year PetSmart has donated to GLSEN, with contributions totaling $600,000 to date.”
“PetSmart is proud to elevate the voices and experiences of the LGBTQ+ community – from our associates and the pet parents we serve, to members of the community and allies,” senior vice president and chief merchandising officer at PetSmart Kristin Shane said. “Our You Are Loved collection was initiated and inspired by our associate resource group team members to help pet parents and their pets celebrate the spirit of Pride and share our values of inclusion and unconditional love.”
One user noted that this is something all the pet stores are doing. “I have posted about Petsmart’s Pride collection, Pet Supply Plus sneaking into the Pride thing, & now much to my disappointment, PETCO has as well!” they said. “That leaves us with Tractor Supply- they will never go woke.”
Others alluded to the partnership with GLSEN in their post. Education Consultant Deb Fillman joked, “For your dog who identifies as a cat, I presume?” they added, “So PetSmart supports groomers. Good to know.”
For your dog who identifies as a cat, I presume?
So @PetSmart supports groomers.
Good to know. pic.twitter.com/XpAO5waBDA
— Owl of Athena (@deb_fillman) May 29, 2023
Continued…
Approved ~ MJM
