The Kroger Juneteenth cakes controversy has taken social media by storm, igniting heated discussions about cultural sensitivity and corporate responsibility. In mid-June 2025, a viral TikTok video from an Atlanta, Georgia, Kroger store showcased poorly decorated cookie cakes meant to celebrate Juneteenth, a federal holiday commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. The video, posted by TikToker
@blaq.monalisa, revealed desserts with sloppy, off-center phrases like “FREE,” “June 19 Free,” and “Free @ Last,” sparking outrage for their lack of care and perceived insensitivity. This incident has raised questions about how retailers approach culturally significant holidays, with many calling for more thoughtful representation. Let’s dive into the latest developments surrounding this issue and explore what it means for Kroger and the broader conversation about Juneteenth.
Kroger Juneteenth Cakes
The controversy began on June 17, 2025, when @blaq.monalisa posted a video from a Kroger store on Howell Mill Road in Atlanta. She expressed frustration, noting that while other bakery items, like birthday cakes, were meticulously decorated, the Juneteenth cakes looked rushed and unprofessional. One cake even featured the phrase “Congratulations,” which many found tone-deaf for a holiday marking the end of slavery. The video amassed over 10 million views, with thousands of comments echoing her disappointment. Viewers described the cakes as a “mockery” of Juneteenth, a day that holds deep meaning for Black communities, commemorating June 19, 1865, when Union troops announced freedom to enslaved people in Galveston, Texas.
Kroger quickly responded, stating that the cakes did not meet their quality standards or align with provided guidance. By June 19, the desserts were removed from the store’s shelves. The company also reached out to the store team and the TikToker to address the issue. However, @blaq.monalisa noted in a follow-up video that she was disappointed Kroger didn’t replace the cakes with more thoughtful designs, highlighting a missed opportunity to honor the holiday properly.
Key Points Summary
- Viral Video: TikToker @blaq.monalisa’s video of poorly decorated Kroger Juneteenth cakes went viral, gaining over 10 million views.
- Public Reaction: Social media users criticized the cakes as disrespectful, with phrases like “Free @ Last” seen as insensitive.
- Kroger’s Response: The company removed the cakes and issued a statement acknowledging the subpar quality.
- Ongoing Debate: The incident sparked discussions about corporate handling of cultural holidays.
Why the Backlash Matters
The Kroger Juneteenth cakes incident isn’t just about sloppy icing—it’s about how corporations engage with culturally significant moments. Juneteenth, recognized as a federal holiday since 2021, celebrates a pivotal moment in Black history. Yet, the poorly executed cakes, with phrases that seemed to trivialize this history, struck a nerve. Social media reactions ranged from humorous jabs to serious critiques. One TikTok user quipped that the “FREE” cake looked like a “welcome home from jail” dessert, while others felt Kroger’s effort was a shallow attempt to profit from the holiday. This sentiment reflects a broader frustration with companies that appear to commodify cultural events without understanding their weight.
The backlash also drew comparisons to past corporate missteps. In 2022, Walmart faced criticism for Juneteenth-themed ice cream, and in 2023, their watermelon-flavored cakes were called “tacky” due to stereotypical connotations. These incidents highlight a pattern: retailers often struggle to strike the right tone when celebrating Black history. Many online voices suggested Kroger could have consulted Black community leaders or hired skilled decorators to create meaningful designs, such as those incorporating red, black, and green colors or symbols of liberation.
Social Media Amplifies the Conversation
Social media, particularly TikTok and X, played a massive role in escalating the Kroger Juneteenth cakes controversy. Posts on X called out the cakes’ lack of creativity, with some users joking about the amateur designs while others demanded accountability. The rapid spread of the video—reaching millions within days—shows how platforms like TikTok can amplify community voices and hold corporations accountable. Comments on @blaq.monalisa’s video included calls to “fire the whole bakery” and suggestions that Kroger should have skipped the cakes altogether if they couldn’t do them justice. The conversation extended to Reddit, where an alleged Kroger employee defended the bakers, citing overwork and minimal training as possible reasons for the subpar designs.
This incident underscores the power of social media to shape public perception. While some defended the bakers, arguing they were likely under pressure, the consensus leaned toward disappointment in Kroger’s oversight. The viral nature of the video forced a swift response, but it also left lingering questions about how retailers can better honor Juneteenth in the future.
What’s Next for Kroger and Juneteenth?
Kroger’s quick removal of the cakes was a step toward damage control, but the incident has sparked calls for more meaningful action. Online discussions suggest retailers should invest in cultural education and collaborate with Black artists or community leaders to create authentic tributes. Some proposed that Kroger could have offered red velvet cakes or desserts with symbols like the Juneteenth flag to reflect the holiday’s spirit. As of June 20, 2025, there’s no indication that Kroger plans to reintroduce Juneteenth-themed items this year, but the company is likely reevaluating its approach for future holidays.
The controversy also highlights a broader challenge for corporate America: balancing celebration with respect. Juneteenth isn’t just a marketing opportunity; it’s a moment to honor resilience and freedom. Moving forward, Kroger and similar retailers may need to prioritize authenticity over quick profits to avoid repeating this mistake.
Join the Conversation
What do you think about the Kroger Juneteenth cakes controversy? Should retailers sell themed desserts for cultural holidays, or is it better to avoid them altogether? Share your thoughts on social media and let’s keep the dialogue going about how to honor Juneteenth with respect and creativity.