A Texas woman’s Facebook post about a decoration at Hobby Lobby sparked controversy online.
Daniell Rider of Killeen, Texas, shared a post on Hobby Lobby’s Facebook page which included a photo of glass vases housing stalks of cotton. The store is selling the cotton vases as a decoration.
“This decor is WRONG on SO many levels,” Rider wrote in her post. “There is nothing decorative about raw cotton… A commodity which was gained at the expense of African-American slaves. A little sensitivity goes a long way. PLEASE REMOVE THIS ‘decor.’”
A number of viewers criticized Rider for the post, arguing that cotton itself is not offensive.
“All those who are offended [by] cotton being a decoration need to quit buying any product made of cotton!” another added. “What difference does it make if it’s a decoration or part of a product. You’re being hypocritical if your offended by cotton being a decoration and not offended by any product made of cotton.”
More readers shared their thoughts on Facebook.
“Oh please,” another user added. “Are you serious. Breathing my air is offensive. And doesn’t that sound stupid. Come on people this is a little extreme I had to read the article to find out why it was so offensive. Grow up.”
Lipscomb President Randy Lowry apologized for the decoration following the incident, saying that he could have approached the situation “with more sensitivity.”
