From a Kroger grocery store with questionable Juneteenth cakes to employees at an auto shop in North Carolina, the recent Juneteenth holiday celebrations and the reactions from various companies have left many people shocked and sparked significant backlash on social media platforms. The way some corporations approached this important cultural celebration has raised eyebrows and prompted discussions about sensitivity and representation.
Now, The Shade Room’s Justin Carter is diving deep into these hotspots and providing a thorough analysis of what transpired on ‘TSR Investigates.’ Were these events that ignited outrage merely honest blunders, or do they indicate a much larger underlying issue regarding corporate cultural awareness and sensitivity? Join Carter as he unravels these incidents.
In-Depth Insight Into the Controversy at Kroger and the Auto Shop During Juneteenth Celebrations
According to Carter, a notable incident occurred in 2022 in Rochester, New York, when a Black off-duty firefighter was allegedly compelled by his supervisor to participate in a Juneteenth party. This event showcased what many observers deemed discriminatory decorations and themes, leading the firefighter to sue the city for billions of dollars. Ultimately, as per Carter’s report, the case was settled for a little over half a million dollars. Additionally, that same year, Walmart faced its fair share of scrutiny for similar reasons, highlighting a widespread issue in corporate America regarding the respectful observance of cultural holidays.
Fast forward to 2025, and it seems that Kroger is attempting to navigate similar waters with their latest offerings.
” I just wanted something sweet,” customer Tori Russell recounted to Carter, sharing her experience upon discovering “Free At Last” cakes at a Kroger store in Atlanta. Her TikTok video showcasing the store’s display has astonishingly amassed over 14 million views, illustrating the power of social media in shaping public opinion. “I was just saying if you’re gonna put something out, put a little effort into it,” she expressed, emphasizing the importance of genuine representation and thoughtful marketing.
Unpacking the Kroger Incident, Auto Shop Reactions & Public Backlash
According to Carter, the following morning, the controversial cakes were removed from the store’s display. In response to the outcry, Kroger issued a statement addressing the backlash regarding the cakes and their display during the Juneteenth holiday.
Scroll above to watch as Carter elaborates on how Kroger responded to the now-viral footage. He also shares insightful comparisons with other grocery stores that have celebrated the holiday in a more positive light, showcasing how they have successfully engaged with their communities. Additionally, Carter recounts an incident at a North Carolina auto shop that led one Black woman to walk out in protest over the employees’ inappropriate comments regarding the holiday. This incident did not end there; the footage was shared by the shop’s owner, igniting a larger conversation across social media about racial sensitivity and workplace culture.
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What Do You Think Roomies?
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