inappropriate kids clothing

A South African store reacted swiftly after being lambasted online for an inappropriate kids shirt condoning bullying with a slogan, and we think the community has helped them come up with an incredible plan of action!

 

Clarissa Lester Witten was horrified after seeing a t-shirt with a “Mean girls” quote on the front while out shopping. The shirt was meant for 7-8 year olds but ultimately allowed bullying.

She contacted the clothing store to ask why they were condoning bullying.

“I would love it if someone would please explain to me how you think selling a dress for 7-8 year olds with the slogan ‘YOU CAN’T SIT WITH US’ is ok?”

“With all the anti-bullying efforts of schools across the country, with children committing suicide because of being being bullied or made to feel less than, you sell clothing that promotes segregation? You are undermining the efforts of all those promoting kindness and inclusion.”

“This specific garment needs to be removed from your shelves.”

“Further more I think you need to have a sit down with your buyers and discuss the message your store is trying to promote, because I can promise you that if this is the culture you’re trying to cultivate I will cut up my store card and swiftly move along to a store with more ethics than yours.”

The community managers responded immediately sparking a conversation where South Africans came up with the perfect solution to fixing the shirts!

Good day Clarissa, thank you so much for engaging with us. We’d like to let you know that your complaint has been heard and will be taken seriously. These t-shirts are in the process of being taken off our shelves. Please remain patient with us as we attempt to resolve this. Many thanks, Jet Online Team.

Witten thanked the store for their quick response and for taking the issue so seriously… she also suggested that they employ a silkscreener to cross out the word ‘CAN’T’ with a giant X and then print the word CAN above it.

The garments could then either be donated to charity – or be put back on your shelves, with all the proceeds donated to an anti-bullying movement.

The clothing store responded that they would send her concept to management and would keep everyone posted with the outcome!

“That is a great idea Clarissa, well thought out! We appreciate that you’ve taken time to think about what we could do to fix this and we will be sending this through to higher powers to see what they think about it!”

Sometimes, even corporates get it wrong, but it is the way that they handle the situation, owning the mistake and trying to work together to fix it that really matters!

GoodThingsGuy will update the story when the outcome is decided but judging by the swift response of Jet, we’re sure it will be a good thing!


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Sources: Facebook

About the Author

Brent Lindeque is the founder and editor in charge at Good Things Guy.

Recognised as one of the Mail and Guardian’s Top 200 Young South African’s as well as a Primedia LeadSA Hero, Brent is a change maker, thought leader, radio host, foodie, vlogger, writer and all round good guy.

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