Erik Carnell, an immensely talented designer based in the UK and the proud owner of the esteemed company Abprallen, has found himself embroiled in a whirlwind of controversy. This firestorm was ignited by his exceptional design contributions for Target’s highly anticipated 2023 Pride season. Unfortunately, following his announcement on Instagram, he was unfairly labeled a “satanist” by certain conservative voices due to perceived satanic references in a small portion of his collection. It is important to note that none of these controversial items were included in Target’s Pride Month collection, showcasing the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. Carnell firmly asserts that his critics have distorted the facts to fit their own narratives, seeking to draw attention rather than engage in meaningful dialogue.
Target, as a result of its groundbreaking stance on inclusivity, has found itself at the epicenter of a contentious debate. Conservative individuals have called for a boycott of the retail giant, primarily due to their inclusion of certain items in the 2023 Pride collection. Additionally, Target faced criticism for allegedly selling “tuck-friendly” swimsuits, specifically designed to provide comfort and support to transgender women who have not yet undergone gender-affirming surgery. The actions of Target have been scrutinized, with conservative commentator Matt Walsh even suggesting that they surpassed the controversy surrounding Bud Light’s recent commemorative can tribute to transgender activist Dylan Mulvaney.
During a candid interview with the reputable Daily Dot, Erik Carnell took the opportunity to set the record straight. He made it clear that he was not involved in the design of the “tuck-friendly” items that stirred controversy. It is disheartening that his critics, including prominent figures like CPAC host Mercedes Schlapp and the conservative online magazine The Federalist, not only labeled him a “satanist” but also accused him of endorsing evil through his designs and harboring a desire to “eradicate” critics of transgenderism. Schlapp passionately called for Christians and religious individuals to boycott Target, while a tweet from The Federalist implicated both Target and Carnell in promoting satanism.
Contrary to these unfounded accusations, Erik Carnell openly expressed to the Daily Dot that he does not believe in Satan. He further clarified his perspective by stating, “I don’t believe in the Bible… It’s a metaphor.” It is essential to recognize that an artist’s creative expression should be distinguished from their personal beliefs. Artists often employ symbolism and metaphors to convey their artistic vision, and it should not be misconstrued as an endorsement of any particular ideology. At the time of reporting, Target had not yet responded to Newsweek’s request for comment on the ongoing controversy, leaving room for further discussion and clarification.
