Published on November 23, 2023, 3:33 am

A petition to boycott Macy’s stores and not tune in for the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has amassed over 40,500 signatures. The grievance lies in the inclusion of what the petition labels as a glaring transgender agenda.

Traditionally held in New York City, the Thanksgiving Day Parade is a family-friendly event that draws tens of millions of American television viewers each year. In contrast to previous years, this time some characters associated with parade performances are reputed as non-binary or transgender.

The petition, hosted by One Million Moms, part of the American Family Association states: “The non-binary and transgender extravaganza on display this Thanksgiving will be brought to you by Macy’s during their annually sponsored Thanksgiving Day Parade.” It goes on to allege that this may expose unsuspecting viewers to a liberal LGBTQ agenda.

Performances slated for this year’s parade will include music from two Broadway shows, ‘& Juliet’ and ‘Shucked’. Both productions feature performers representing transgender and non-binary identities in major roles. A reminder here is that last year’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade presented pop singer Kim Petras, often referred to as the “world’s youngest transsexual.”

Kristen Waggoner, President of Alliance Defending Freedom (ADF), responded: “Macy’s inclusion of a non-binary transgender character in a parade is yet another sign of an ideological war on families ensuing; customers have had enough. Respectably trusted corporate brands seem to be turning a blind eye.”

The One Million Moms petition further denounces Macy’s for promoting such entertainment: “It is evident that Macy’s does not have our children’s best interests at heart. They need to understand trust must be earned and regaining lost trust can prove challenging.” This sentiment reflects a notable Christian worldview perspective towards corporations’ sociocultural actions.

As per recent updates, the petition has garnered 40,543 signatures with sharp comments directed at those considering signing it.
A blurb in the petition reads, “Since this event contradicts our beliefs and values, Macy’s leaves conservative Christian families little choice but to steer clear of the parade and its stores, even during the holiday season. Macy’s, you have lost our trust.”

Despite all the controversy, Macy’s is proceeding with the Thanksgiving Day events as planned.

A spokesperson for Macy’s underscored that for almost a century, the parade has showcased top-of-the-line entertainment: contemporary music acts, Broadway’s finest performances, exceptional marching bands and dance teams from across the country. They further expressed anticipation to celebrate this iconic tradition yet again this Thanksgiving.

To conclude on a real news note – it has to be seen how much an impact such petitions will have on long-standing traditions like these and corporations like Macy’s who are attempting to keep pace with changing societal norms.