Target asks shoppers not to carry firearms in their stores

Target. Yet another company that was forced with their back against the wall and has issued a public statement asking shoppers not to carry firearms while in their stores. This is a response to Mom’s Demand Action and their campaign targeting the chain. Target issued the following public statement today:

As you’ve likely seen in the media, there has been a debate about whether guests in communities that permit “open carry” should be allowed to bring firearms into Target stores. Our approach has always been to follow local laws, and of course, we will continue to do so. But starting today we will also respectfully request that guests not bring firearms to Target — even in communities where it is permitted by law.

We’ve listened carefully to the nuances of this debate and respect the protected rights of everyone involved. In return, we are asking for help in fulfilling our goal to create an atmosphere that is safe and inviting for our guests and team members.

This is a complicated issue, but it boils down to a simple belief: Bringing firearms to Target creates an environment that is at odds with the family-friendly shopping and work experience we strive to create.

Pleased with the news, Shannon Watts, founder of Mom’s Demand Action, applauded the decision of the chain.

“Moms are thankful that Target responded quickly to the call of nearly 400,000 Americans and asked customers to keep their firearms at home. Moms everywhere were horrified to see images of people carrying loaded assault rifles down the same aisles where we shop for diapers and toys.”

“Like Chipotle, Starbucks, Facebook, Jack in the Box, Sonic, and Chili’s, Target recognized that moms are a powerful customer base and political force — and you can respect the 2nd Amendment and the safety of customers at the same time.”

Mom’s Demand Action are receiving these victories because of these types of things. However for the Target debate, Mom’s Demand Action took aim at the group Open Carry Texas and used old images of them carrying firearms in one of their locations. The group has since changed the way they demonstrate.