Kroger is facing significant criticism on TikTok after a video showcasing the store’s Juneteenth cakes attracted millions of views. The video, recorded at a Kroger location in Atlanta, Georgia, depicted a limited and minimally decorated selection of cakes intended to honor the federal holiday on June 19. This holiday commemorates the emancipation of the last enslaved people in the United States in 1865.
In the video, the creator @blaq.monalisa expressed strong disapproval, describing the cakes as a “mockery” and questioning the effort put into their decoration. The cakes featured plain designs with simple inscriptions such as “Free @ last,” “June 19 free,” and just “Free.” The creator criticized the aesthetics, saying, “This is some bulls—,” and lamented the lack of effort and creativity compared to other decorations around the store.
The TikToker also noted that at the time of filming, no managers were present to address the concerns. The following day, it was reported that these cakes were no longer available for purchase. @blaq.monalisa posted a subsequent TikTok confirming their removal, but expressed disappointment that better options were not provided.
Public reaction on social media largely echoed the creator’s sentiments. Users expressed their disappointment over the uninspired decorations, with comments ranging from humorous to disapproving. One user remarked, “I’m highly disappointed in Kroger,” while another suggested that the bakery team should be held accountable.
The controversy is not isolated, as past instances of holiday-themed products missing the mark—such as Walmart’s 2022 Juneteenth ice cream—have also faced scrutiny. Critics argue that holiday observances deserve thoughtful and respectful representation, which they feel was lacking in Kroger’s approach this year.
Melina Khan, a national trending reporter for USA TODAY, highlighted the effectiveness of social media in driving change, noting that the viral TikTok may have influenced Kroger’s decision to remove the cakes from shelves.
In conclusion, the incident raises ongoing questions about commercial and cultural awareness during national holidays. It underscores the importance of respecting significant cultural observances through meaningful and creative decorations. As retail stores continue to participate in recognizing holidays like Juneteenth, the pressure to do so thoughtfully remains high. Will other companies take a more respectful approach in the future? That remains to be seen.
