Fashion retailer LulaRoe, famous for its famously soft leggings that often tear easily, is facing backlash once again. This time, however, the controversy doesn’t arise from their treatment of sellers or legal issues regarding the reimbursement of merchandise. Instead, it centers around a video shared by prominent vendor, John “Johnny” Thompson, who was caught ridiculing individuals with disabilities.
In the troubling video, Thompson can be seen making derogatory remarks about people with Down Syndrome, stating, “Hello, my name is Johnny, and I’m unique,” while pulling faces and joking during a live LulaRoe clothing sale. The video sparked outrage as viewers condemned his insensitivity.
Realizing the gravity of his actions, Thompson quickly uploaded a so-called “apology” video featuring his partner, Lily, and her sister, who has Down Syndrome. In this video, he shed tears and claimed that he should be forgiven because he has a close relationship with someone in the disability community, saying that his life felt complete once he met Lily.
However, this rationale did not sit well with many. The notion that having a family member with a disability somehow excuses his mockery was met with strong criticism, suggesting that it only compounded his insensitivity.
Adding to the controversy is the fact that LulaRoe founders, Mark and DeeAnn, have a granddaughter, Mia, who was born with Down Syndrome. They even created a special dress in her honor and pledged a portion of sales to the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). Initially perceived as a thoughtful gesture, the situation took a turn when the NDSS publicly condemned Thompson’s video, stating they would terminate their partnership with LulaRoe.
Despite the backlash, instead of distancing themselves from Thompson, Mark and DeeAnn expressed their belief in his sincerity and chose to keep him as a vendor. Their decision to support Thompson over the NDSS has drawn significant criticism, with many questioning their commitment to ethical standards.
In a broader context, if such behavior were to occur in any other professional environment, one might expect immediate consequences. Yet, LulaRoe appears to prioritize the financial contributions of Thompson over the values of inclusion and respect. The public’s outrage has even prompted a petition on Change.org calling for the termination of Thompson’s contract.
If you continue to support this company by selling or purchasing their products, you are contributing to the ongoing issue. There is no justification for Thompson’s behavior, and Mark and DeeAnn’s lack of accountability reflects poorly on their brand. LulaRoe has clearly shown that profit takes precedence over compassion.
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Summary
LulaRoe is facing severe backlash after a top vendor, Johnny Thompson, was recorded mocking individuals with disabilities. Despite the public outcry and the National Down Syndrome Society severing ties, the company has chosen to stand by Thompson, causing significant controversy regarding their values.