In a recent controversy, Forever 21 has come under fire for a highly inappropriate t-shirt design that many are calling victim-blaming. The shirt, intended for men, features the troubling slogan, “Don’t Say Maybe If You Want To Say No.” This message has sparked outrage, leaving many to question the thought process behind such a design.
Forever 21 is well-known for its affordable, trendy apparel that attracts a youthful customer base, including kids and tweens. The idea that a teenager might encounter or even purchase this shirt is alarming. Who thought this message was acceptable?
In response to the backlash, a representative for Forever 21 assured Refinery29 that the company takes customer feedback seriously. “Forever 21 strives to exemplify the highest ethical standards,” they stated, adding that the shirt has been promptly removed from their website following the flood of customer complaints.
This isn’t the first instance of offensive clothing being sold by major retailers. Last year, Target faced criticism for a shirt that many deemed sexist, which read simply “TROPHY.” A woman from Milwaukee campaigned against it, arguing that it perpetuated a harmful narrative about women being objectified for male pleasure. Target’s defense was dismissive, asserting that they hadn’t received significant complaints, and the shirt remains available online.
The dialogue surrounding rape and rape culture is increasingly prominent in society today. Lady Gaga’s poignant performance of “Til It Happens to You” at the Academy Awards, alongside survivors of sexual assault, highlighted the urgency of this issue. The song addresses the victim-blaming often faced by survivors, drawing attention to the very themes Forever 21’s t-shirt seemingly exploits, as pointed out by cultural commentator Ava Brooks.
It is difficult to comprehend how this design progressed through the approval process without someone questioning its appropriateness. No parent should need to worry about their child encountering such a message in a popular retail store. Forever 21 is acutely aware of its target demographic, making the fact that this shirt was ever available all the more troubling.
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In summary, Forever 21’s recent shirt design has ignited a wave of criticism for its insensitivity toward serious issues like victim-blaming and rape culture. Retailers must remain vigilant about the messages they promote, especially when catering to a young audience.