Baker faces backlash, threats after political cookie statement targeting ICE
CINCINNATI (WKRC) - An Ohio baker is facing backlash and threats after using cookies to make a political statement.
The baker, whom WPEC is not naming due to the threats and safety concerns, posted on Facebook expressing their inability to remain silent about the actions of ICE, including raids and killings.
The post included images of cookies, two of which featured some of the last words of Alex Pretti and Renee Good, both shot and killed by ICE agents. The most controversial cookie displayed an expletive directed at ICE.
The post was picked up and shared by a conservative social media account, calling for a boycott. The baker said soon after she began receiving death threats and had her personal information shared online.
Leslie Rasmussen, an associate professor of communication at Xavier, noted that businesses often face pushback when taking political stances.
"I think it's highly likely that they will get some kind of pushback, regardless of what type of posts they make if they're taking a stance on any issue. At the same time, we do have a lot of data out there to support that people want to do business with brands that align with their values. That's especially true of Gen Z," Rasmussen said. "People really want to do business with brands that align with their values. And I think we are seeing more and more brands come out and take positions. Celebrities and their brands are coming out, you know, especially this past week, and speaking out."
Online comments show the baker has gained new customers from outside the Cincinnati area. She has recorded each threat and forwarded them to law enforcement. Police are investigating.
