Costco Yanks Controversial ‘Lil’ Monkey’ Doll Off Shelves

LOS ANGELES — Costco has pulled a controversial doll from its shelves after customers complained it was racist.

The doll is called ‘Cuddle with Me” manufactured by BrassKey Keepsakes. It’s the headband that is causing the controversy. It reads “Lil’ Monkey.” The doll is also surrounded by stuffed monkeys. The white doll counterpart on store shelves is surrounded by pandas, with a hat that reads ‘Pretty Panda.’

Mary Gustoff, CEO of Brasskey Keepsakes, said the company has apologized for the mistake, and never intended it to be racist.

“It’s so unfortunate because now it’s portrayed as a purposeful act to be disrespectful and that’s not true. We really apologize. We don’t think in that way. We don’t operate in that kind of thinking. We have a really diverse, family operated company that’s been around for 28 years. What would we have to gain for heaven’s sake?”

Costco is also apologizing for the mistake.

Many customers complained the doll was a reference to the term “monkey” which has been used in the past by racists to denegrate African Americans.

Source: KTLA News

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