Martha Stewart Says Costume Was Meant to Raise Awareness

Martha Stewart said her Halloween costume depicting an unhoused person was intended to draw attention to homelessness, after deleting a photo of the outfit that drew criticism online. In a statement, she said she was distressed that the costume had offended people and that causing offense was not her intention. The image showed Stewart in worn clothing, with dirt on her face, holding a sign that read, “I am hungry. Help me.” Critics objected to her choice to portray someone experiencing homelessness. The reports describe online criticism but do not establish how broadly those views were held. Stewart said homelessness was a cause she cared deeply about and that she had spent significant time and effort supporting charities that combat it. She also said she was committed to continuing to make a difference. Those statements explain her stated motivation and response; they do not independently establish the extent or impact of her charitable work. The photo was deleted after it was shared. One report said the post appeared in a carousel promoting Stewart’s candles and included a caption encouraging followers to shop from her QVC candle line. The image’s sign and clothing were...