2. Etsy Receives Backlash For ‘Alligator Alcatraz’ Merch The popular online marketplace Etsy received backlash from its users for facilitating the sale of merchandise using the “Alligator Alcatraz” branding. The term refers to a detention center that Immigration and Customs Enforcement established in Florida earlier this year. Numerous media outlets have reported improper treatment at the center. The GOP made waves shortly after the polarizing detention center was opened by selling “Alligator Alcatraz” branded T-shirts, hats and other promotional products through the Republican Party of Florida’s webstore. The GOP and Etsy are not alone in making money off of “Alligator Alcatraz” merchandise. Similarly branded items are also being purchased at e-commerce platforms such as Amazon and eBay. While many other online platforms are selling “Alligator Alcatraz”- themed products, a large contingent of Etsy users have made the argument that Etsy is in violation of its own discrimination and hateful content policy by facilitating the sale of such merch. This has led a growing number of buyers and sellers to go to various social media platforms to call for a boycott of Etsy. Under said policy, Etsy claims to want “everyone on Etsy to feel safe” while “fostering an inclusive environment. In order to serve that mission, the policy prohibits the use of services that discriminate against people based on a list of attributes, which includes “immigration status.” 1. GOP Removes ‘Deport Depot’ Merch After Home Depot Objects The Republican Party in August stopped advertising and selling “Deport Depot” merchandise that bears resemblance to Home Depot’s logo. While the promotional products brought some quick attention to Florida’s immigration detention center, the administration seemed to have been playing fast and loose with trademark policy, caving quickly when the retail giant voiced concern. The “Deportation Depot” is a highly publicized detention center in Florida intended to house individuals with immigration violations. In an effort to bring attention to the venture, the GOP sold and advertised T-shirts, mugs, hats and other promo products that read “Deport Depot” using Home Depot’s orange branding and signature font. Beth Marlowe, a spokesperson for Home Depot, told the Tampa Bay Times that the company had not given the Republican Party any approval to use its branding or logo. Within three days of Marlowe’s comments, the products were removed from social media and no longer available for purchase. Polarizing Promo Both sides of the aisle have invested in branded merchandise that caused controversy. Compiled by Jonny Auping & Sarah Luna Photo courtesy of The Republican Party of Florida Photo courtesy of Etsy 76 • NOVEMBER 2025 • PPAI Community | Buzzworthy
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NzU4OQ==