Ben & Jerry’s found themselves in a swirl of controversy after celebrating abortion providers on social media, leaving many customers vowing to permanently drop their spoons and boycott the brand.
Quick Takes
- Ben & Jerry’s sparked outrage with a social media post celebrating National Abortion Provider Appreciation Day
- The company linked to a webpage listing reasons to support abortion providers, including claims about threats to providers and impacts on communities of color
- Critics including Senator Ted Cruz and pro-life activists condemned the message, with many calling for boycotts of the ice cream brand
- The controversy highlights the risks companies face when taking stances on deeply divisive social and political issues
Ice Cream Giant Stirs Controversy with Pro-Abortion Post
On March 10th, Ben & Jerry’s ignited a firestorm of criticism after posting on social media in support of National Abortion Provider Appreciation Day. The ice cream company, long known for its progressive social stances, published a message declaring, “We stand with abortion providers today and every day,” accompanied by a link to their website elaborating on why Americans should support abortion providers. The company’s post specifically highlighted what they described as threats faced by abortion providers and impacts on communities of color, framing their message as one of solidarity with the abortion industry.
The backlash was swift and severe, particularly from conservative and pro-life Americans who viewed the company’s stance as glorifying the termination of unborn lives. Critics pointed out that Ben & Jerry’s statement went beyond simply acknowledging a controversial political position and instead actively celebrated a practice many Americans consider morally unconscionable. The post triggered thousands of negative responses across social media platforms, with many longtime customers expressing shock and disappointment at what they perceived as the company’s cavalier attitude toward a serious ethical issue.
We're boycotting @benandjerrys for celebrating baby killers.
Who's with us? 🙋♂️🙋♀️ pic.twitter.com/zpvWD50k54
— LifeNews.com (@LifeNewsHQ) March 11, 2025
Political Leaders and Pro-Life Activists Respond
Senator Ted Cruz of Texas was among the high-profile figures who condemned Ben & Jerry’s position, writing on social media: “Tragic. Ben & Jerry’s hates you and openly hates your values.” The senator suggested that consumers switch to Blue Bell ice cream instead, a sentiment echoed by many conservatives online who pledged to boycott the Vermont-based company. The controversy quickly evolved from a social media dust-up into a broader cultural flashpoint, highlighting the deep divisions that remain around abortion in America, particularly following the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade.
Pro-life activist Abby Johnson was particularly outspoken in her criticism, directly addressing the company: “It’s disgusting that you’re cheering for the slaughter of innocent human beings. Disgusting.” Other critics noted that National Abortion Provider Appreciation Day commemorates Dr. David Gunn, an abortion doctor who was murdered by an anti-abortion activist in 1993 – a connection that added further complexity to an already contentious issue. Many objected to what they saw as Ben & Jerry’s attempt to frame opposition to abortion as a threat to vulnerable communities.
A Pattern of Political Activism
For observers familiar with Ben & Jerry’s corporate history, the abortion post represents just the latest in a long string of progressive political stances taken by the ice cream maker. Since being acquired by consumer goods giant Unilever in 2000, Ben & Jerry’s has maintained an independent board for its social mission, weighing in on issues ranging from LGBTQ+ rights to climate change. The company has previously made headlines for its positions on Israeli settlements in occupied territories and the Gaza conflict, often attracting both praise and criticism depending on the observer’s political alignment.
While Ben & Jerry’s management has long defended its right to speak out on social issues, critics argue that the company has increasingly alienated large segments of potential customers with its political messaging. Rival ice cream brands have largely avoided such controversies by refraining from weighing in on divisive topics, leading some business analysts to question whether Ben & Jerry’s activist approach ultimately helps or hurts its bottom line. For the substantial portion of Americans with traditional values and pro-life beliefs, the company’s latest stance may prove to be the final straw that melts their customer loyalty.
