Ice cream giant Ben & Jerry’s sparked outrage among pro-life Americans after celebrating “National Abortion Provider Appreciation Day” on social media, prompting calls for boycotts and accusations of promoting the killing of unborn children.
Key Takeaways
- Ben & Jerry’s social media post supporting abortion providers triggered significant backlash from pro-life advocates and conservative voices
- The company linked to resources on their website claiming threats to abortion providers disproportionately impact communities of color
- Senator Ted Cruz and conservative commentator Michael Knowles were among high-profile critics condemning the company’s stance
- Many critics encouraged consumers to boycott Ben & Jerry’s in favor of other ice cream brands, particularly Blue Bell
- The controversy highlights the risks businesses face when taking positions on divisive social issues
Ben & Jerry’s Pro-Abortion Stance Ignites Controversy
On Tuesday, March 10, Ben & Jerry’s ice cream company posted a message on social media declaring, “We stand with abortion providers today and every day” in recognition of National Abortion Provider Appreciation Day. The post included a link to a page on the company’s website listing reasons to support abortion providers, including claims about threats to providers and disproportionate impacts on communities of color. The company’s public stance immediately drew fierce criticism from pro-life advocates who viewed the message as celebrating and promoting abortion rather than simply supporting reproductive rights.
The backlash against Ben & Jerry’s was swift and severe across social media platforms. Pro-life activist Abby Johnson directly addressed the company on X (formerly Twitter), stating: “It’s disgusting that you’re cheering for the slaughter of innocent human beings. Disgusting.” Multiple conservative commentators echoed this sentiment, with many calling for consumers to abandon the brand entirely. The controversy escalated as both sides of the abortion debate weighed in, turning the post into a full-blown public relations crisis.
We're boycotting @benandjerrys for celebrating baby killers.
Who's with us? 🙋♂️🙋♀️ pic.twitter.com/zpvWD50k54
— LifeNews.com (@LifeNewsHQ) March 11, 2025
High-Profile Conservatives Lead Criticism
Several prominent conservative voices publicly condemned Ben & Jerry’s position. Texas Senator Ted Cruz shared his disapproval on social media, writing: “Tragic. Ben & Jerry’s hates you and openly hates your values.” Cruz followed up with a direct call for consumers to switch brands: “Throw Ben & Jerry’s in the trash. Buy Blue Bell instead!” The senator’s comments reflect the growing conservative frustration with corporations perceived as promoting progressive social values while alienating traditional consumers.
Conservative media personality Michael Knowles of The Daily Wire delivered one of the most blistering critiques, describing Ben & Jerry’s post as “revolting” and urging consumers to boycott the brand. Others highlighted that National Abortion Provider Appreciation Day commemorates Dr. David Gunn, who was murdered by an anti-abortion extremist in 1993. The contentious nature of this observance further fueled disagreements about whether Ben & Jerry’s message was appropriate for a consumer brand typically associated with family-friendly ice cream.
History of Activism Meets Business Reality
This controversy is not Ben & Jerry’s first venture into politically charged waters. The company, which was acquired by Unilever in 2021, maintains an independent board focused on social mission initiatives including LGBTQ+ rights, climate change advocacy, and previous actions related to Israel’s occupied territories and the Gaza conflict. Their continued political activism represents a calculated business strategy aimed at appealing to progressive consumers, but one that increasingly risks alienating more conservative customers in America’s polarized political landscape.
The timing of this controversy is particularly significant following the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, which has led to stricter abortion laws in many Republican-led states. Against this backdrop, Ben & Jerry’s public stance on abortion represents more than just corporate virtue signaling – it places the company directly at odds with the deeply held beliefs of many potential customers.
