Note: we are republishing this story, which originally made the news in September 2017.<\/p>\n
A Texas woman’s Facebook post about a decoration at Hobby Lobby sparked controversy online.<\/p>\n
Daniell Rider of Killeen, Texas, shared a post on Hobby Lobby’s Facebook page which included a photo of glass vases housing stalks of cotton. The store is selling the cotton vases as a decoration.<\/p>\n
“This decor is WRONG on SO many levels,” Rider wrote in her post. “There is nothing decorative about raw cotton… A commodity which was gained at the expense of African-American slaves. A little sensitivity goes a long way. PLEASE REMOVE THIS ‘decor.'”<\/p>\n
The post quickly went viral. In less than a week, more than 210,000 people commented and nearly 20,000 shared it.<\/p>\n
A number of viewers criticized Rider for the post, arguing that cotton itself is not offensive.<\/p>\n
“All those who are offended [by] cotton being a decoration need to quit buying any product made of cotton!” another added. “What difference does it make if it’s a decoration or part of a product. You’re being hypocritical if your offended by cotton being a decoration and not offended by any product made of cotton.”<\/p>\n
More readers shared their thoughts on Facebook.<\/p>\n
“People need to get over themselves and stop being so sensitive to stupid\/irrelevant things!!” one user wrote. “There are far more important issues going on in our country, other then cotton on a stick!!! Sounds like someone is just looking to start something with an open Christian company, and of course get their 15 minutes of fame…pathetic!!”<\/p>\n
“Hobby Lobby is the best hobby store around,” another commented. “Cotton is a natural product. If someone is offended by cotton, take a good look at your clothes. Probably cotton or cotton blend. Get over it. Life isn’t all fun and games. Grow up.”<\/p>\n
“Oh please,” another user added. “Are you serious. Breathing my air is offensive. And doesn’t that sound stupid. Come on people this is a little extreme I had to read the article to find out why it was so offensive. Grow up.”<\/p>\n
The post comes following another controversial incident in which the president of Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee, reportedly used cotton stalks as a centerpiece at a dinner for African-American students at his home. Several students complained about the centerpiece being offensive.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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