A viral video showing a woman confronting a Target employee over a red “Freedom” T-shirt referencing conservative commentator Charlie Kirk has prompted a large online fundraising effort for the employee, according to multiple reports.
The altercation took place inside a Target store in California, where a woman identified by social media users as Michelea Ponce approached a Target worker named Jeanie Beeman and criticized her for wearing the shirt while on duty.
In the video, the woman uses profane language and asks why Beeman would wear the shirt, at one point saying, “Why are you wearing that shirt?” and accusing her of supporting a “racist.” Beeman remained calm and reiterated that she was permitted to wear a red shirt as part of her work attire.
The video spread quickly on social media and sparked significant public reaction. In response, supporters launched a crowdfunding campaign on GiveSendGo to raise money for Beeman. That campaign has grown rapidly, with donations approaching $180,000 as of late Thursday, with many contributors saying they want to support her after the harassment—and potentially help her take a vacation or other relief.
The incident also drew attention to Beeman’s employer; Enloe Health, where the woman seen harassing her reportedly works, said it is investigating the matter and expressed concern about the tone of the social media post. Law enforcement in Chico, California, says it is aware of the video and reviewing the matter.
Target confirmed it expects respectful behavior in its stores and said it is focused on supporting its team members following the widely shared footage.
The situation highlights how quickly social media can amplify local interactions into national conversations about political expression and civility.
