When a Bloomingdale’s order meant to be a Chanukah present sparked an online frenzy, the retailer was forced to launch an internal review. A social‑media customer claimed that a staff member had slipped a handwritten “free Palestine” sticky note into a package of holiday pajamas stamped with Jewish stars. The claim was posted on X (formerly Twitter) and quickly gathered traction.
On the first night of Chanukah, Arielle Harris posted a TikTok clip in which she recounted how her boyfriend, Andrew Jones, had purchased the pajamas from the department store.
According to her, the clothing was wrapped in standard Bloomingdale’s packaging, complete with a receipt, and the note was hidden beneath the pajama top. “This never should have happened, and Bloomingdale’s needs to answer for their employees,” Harris said, adding that she had not opened the package before gifting it to her.
Jones later posted that many viewers were skeptical, tweeting, “Craziest part is how many commenters think I faked this.” He emphasized that his gift had arrived exactly as described, and the note was an unauthorized addition.
Bloomingdale’s responded by stating that the matter is under investigation. Jennifer Chadroff, director of brand communications, confirmed that the company had reached out to the couple with a “preliminary apology” and an invitation to discuss the issue further.
She reiterated that antisemitism or any form of discrimination is incompatible with the retailer’s values and that the situation is being treated with the utmost seriousness.
The story drew condemnation from Jewish leaders worldwide. Deborah Lipstadt, the former US envoy for combating antisemitism, tweeted, “A ‘free Palestine’ note in a Bloomingdale’s Chanukah gift. No limits. No shame.” Joan Leslie McGill, executive director of the U.S. Israel Education Association, added, “Jewish identity does not require permission, and it will not be intimidated.”
Bloomingdale’s has issued a formal statement warning that any unauthorized or hateful remarks inserted into products are unacceptable and will prompt a thorough review. Meanwhile, the public has responded with a mix of outrage and calls for accountability, urging the retailer to hold responsible employees and reinforce its commitment to preventing hate material from appearing in its merchandise.
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