WALMART APOLOGIZES, PULLS ‘JUNETEENTH ICE CREAM’ AFTER AN ONLINE BACKLASH

Walmart pulled “Juneteenth ice cream” from its freezers and apologized Tuesday after a swift social media backlash and accusations of commercializing a holiday meant to commemorate the end of American slavery.

The retail giant was set to sell “swirled red velvet and cheesecake” ice cream in a container adorned with Pan-African colors and an image of two Black hands high-fiving each other. “Share and celebrate African American culture, emancipation and enduring hope,” the label read.

The product drew online condemnations from users who accused the retailer of treating a solemn day as a moneymaking vehicle.

In a statement to Fox television stations, which first reported on the products, the company said it would “remove items as appropriate” as it reviews its Juneteenth products.

“Juneteenth holiday marks a celebration of freedom and independence,” Walmart’s statement said. “However, we received feedback that a few items caused concern for some of our customers and we sincerely apologize.”

Walmart’s website on Tuesday offered a wide array of Juneteenth products, including a T-shirt with a word cloud of social-justice and Black empowerment themed phrases in the shape of Africa and Juneteenth party decorations.