More than 23,000 comments have been left in reply to the note, which says that the home improvement retailer decided to to pull the ads because the program incited "strong political and societal views on [diversity and inclusion]." Lowe's believes it is "best to respectfully defer to communities, individuals and groups to discuss and consider such issues of importance," adding that the company continues to have a "strong commitment to diversity… across our workforce and our customers."
Most of the 23,000 comments deride Lowe's for its decision. "So it's okay to advertise during Jersey Shore and other shows that make Americans look idiotic but it's not okay to advertise during a show that demonstrates another perspective in an intelligent manner? Way to go pandering to the lowest element, Lowe's," writes Basia Cosentino. Others express regret for ever having shopped at Lowe's, and pledge not to do so in the future.
But many transparently racist and offensive comments have also been posted since the note went up Saturday, and no one appeared to be moderating them until the press began taking notice on Monday. Below, a selection, via Adweek:
Of course, given the volume of posts now going up on the wall, it will be even more difficult moderate.
Lowe's could not be reached for comment at press time.