by Jennifer Matos

BOSTON – In anticipation of the June 10 Boston Pride events, Macy’s had set up a Pride-related window display. The display featured two male mannequins, with one wearing a Gay Pride rainbow flag around his waist, next to a list of several planned Boston Pride Week events.

The display was taken down when a group that opposes same-sex marriages complained about the display. The group, MassResistance called to complain that the mannequin wearing a pride flag was also wearing a skirt. They urged their members to call and email Macy’s to lodge complaints as well.

At the time of the incident, Macy’s spokesperson Elina Kazan, a Macy's spokeswoman, said the store decided to remove the mannequins but leave the list of events. Macy’s has had displays in the past, but they did not incorporate mannequins. Kazan stated "We believe in diversity, and our customers are very important to us, But (the display) did offend a few of our customers, and we had to re-examine it."

However, after the outcry from gay supporters, Macy’s is changing its tune.

Ron Klein, CEO of Macy’s now cites “miscommunication” in the events that led up to the removal of the display. In its defense, Macy’s does have a reputation of being a supporter in gay rights, ensuring same sex partner benefits and the like. Macy’s reps were quick to bring up their history as an ally to LGBT causes. Their statement offered an apology and asked that consumers remember their record on these issues.