Last chance to save

Prices rise for the Digiday Programmatic Marketing Summit after Mar. 24

REGISTER

Old Navy responds to racist trolls for an ad with an interracial couple

Some online trolls, being trolls, are finding this Old Navy tweet upsetting:

Most sane people in 2016 would see little more in this ad than a wholesome image of a good-looking family. But then, this is the internet we’re talking about. Reaction to the promotional tweet got really ugly, really quickly. 

Here’s a sample (prepare to feel triggered as much as they do — except for a different reason):

After the initial wave of racist tweets subsided, people began to rally around the brand and praising Old Navy for its inclusiveness.

Grace Mahary, the model in the ad, posted on Instagram a response, writing: “In light of the controversy revolving around my pretend family… I am proud to be representing interracial love, multiculturalism, and most importantly, a mentality that supports opportunity for all ethnicities.”

An Old Navy spokeswoman told Digiday that “everyone is welcome” and that the brand has “a proud history of championing diversity and inclusion.”

The brouhaha comes a month after Old Navy’s sister brand Gap found itself accused of racism for an ad many thought had questionable subtext.

Image via Shutterstock.

More in Marketing

Future of Marketing Briefing: Agency operating systems face a differentiation problem

Analysts say half of agency AI platforms won’t survive the decade. Here’s how they plan to beat the odds.

Illustration of a performer balancing money weights on a tightrope, symbolizing how brand safety tools help marketers maintain performance and control.

Macy’s, Inc. is looking to leverage AI ahead of a cautious outlook for 2026

The company will continue its plans to close 65 Macy’s nameplate stores, as part of a previously announced 150 store closures.

The real winners of March Madness? Brands that move fast on NIL deals

Companies across sectors, from footwear to personal care, are racing to sign college basketball players.