Bath And Body Works Apologizes For Selling Candles That Looked Like Ku Klux Klan Hoods

Bath & Body Works has discontinued a candle with a winter motif that many internet critics likened to a Ku Klux Klan hood.

The candle’s label, “Snowed In,” included a stylized paper snowflake. However, many social media users linked it to the hoods and robes used by Klan members. The Southern Poverty Law Center describes the KKK as one of the “oldest and most infamous” hate groups in the United States. The Anti-Defamation League claims that the imagery of the KKK hood has become a hate symbol.

The candle has already been removed from Bath and Body Works’ website and retail locations, with the business informing CNN in a statement that the design was “unintentional.”

Bath And Body Works Apologizes For Selling Candles That Looked Like Ku Klux Klan Hoods

“At Bath and Body Works, we are committed to listening to our teams and customers, and committed to fixing any mistakes we make-even those that are unintentional like this one,” according to a representative. “We apologize to anyone we’ve offended and are swiftly working to have this item removed and are evaluating our process going forward.”

Reddit users jumped on the design choice, labeling it a “klandle” or a “Klan Krismas Kandle.” Some consumers who attempted to order the candle after the scandal erupted late last week reported on social media that their orders had been canceled.

Bath And Body Works Apologizes For Selling Candles That Looked Like Ku Klux Klan Hoods

The canceled candle has appeared on eBay, with one seller seeking to sell it for $350. The corporation did not respond to a request for comment.

Candles are a hallmark of the Bath and Body Works range, which has expanded beyond soaps and lotions. According to an expert, the shop releases a line of holiday-scented candles every year, accounting for approximately 40% of its total annual sales.

SOURCE | CNN