Tool company dismisses critics as ‘snowflakes’ after mocking gay builders
Toolfolks.com posted the message on its Facebook page
A tool company that sent a Facebook post mocking gay builders has claimed that its critics are “snowflakes.”
The ‘comedy’ post to the Toolfolks Facebook page had said: “One of our customers left his tool bag in the shop this week. We can’t work out who it was.
“Took some images of what was in the side compartment.
“If you know who’s bag this is please let him know it’ ready for collection. You can tag him in this post.”
The post included pictures of Gay and Young Guys magazines, a picture of Little Britain gay character Daffyd, and a book bearing the title “Gay builders do it better.”
Tool company insists critics are just ‘snowflakes’
The poor joke got a hostile reception from Facebook users, who called out the playground-level homophobic humour.
Toolfolks has now removed the message, but refused to apologise for posting it.
The Manchester-based company did not return PinkNews’ comment requests, but a spokesperson told the Manchester Evening News that its critics are “snowflakes” and that “it was just a joke.”
Toolfolks added on Facebook: “The joke was about finding something embarrassing in a tool bag. If I used a sex aid would the joke be any different?”
We have become aware that an inappropriate post including the DEWALT brand was shared on a customer’s social channels. That post was not authorized by our company and has been removed.
— DEWALT (@DEWALTtough) January 20, 2020
Power tool manufacturer DeWalt, whose logo was used on the Facebook post, has condemned its content.
The company said on Twitter: “We have become aware that an inappropriate post including the DEWALT brand was shared on a customer’s social channels. That post was not authorized by our company and has been removed.
“Our company is committed to a diverse and inclusive environment for our employees, customers, end-users and all stakeholders. We apologise to everyone who was offended by the post.”
Homophobia in construction industry ’causes hurt and distress’
Construction industry-based diversity trainer Constructing Rainbows was among those to call out the post, writing: “Really disgusting that this still goes on in our industry. And when challenged on it, told it is ‘just a bit of humour’. Well it’s not funny. It’s offensive and it causes hurt and distress.
“I am pleased however that many allies have called this out for what it is.”
The tool company has faced anger over its stance
In a message to Toolfolks, Constructing Rainbows added: “I am willing to come and have a chat with you about why these posts are offensive, and how we can be more inclusive as an industry, if you are interested, please get in touch.”
