In Cape Girardeau, Missouri, a local business had its Pride Month display vandalized, leaving workers upset and calling the act “sad” and unnecessary.
The store, One City Market, had set up a colorful and welcoming window display to show support for the LGBTQ+ community during Pride Month. But on Monday morning, employees arrived to find the decorations damaged and ripped down.
The display included Pride flags, rainbow items, and messages promoting love and acceptance. Workers said it was clear someone had intentionally torn things apart.
For many of them, this felt like more than just a prank—it was personal. They see it as a hateful act during a month meant to celebrate inclusion and diversity.
One employee shared how much effort went into putting the display together and said it was painful to see it ruined. The team said they weren’t trying to push any message on others, but simply wanted to show support for the LGBTQ+ community and help everyone feel welcome at their store.
Cape Girardeau police have been informed, and the business is looking through security footage to see if they can identify who did it. They also hope anyone who saw something suspicious nearby will come forward.
Despite the vandalism, the staff say they won’t let it bring them down. They’re already working on rebuilding the display and plan to keep standing up for what they believe in. They’re encouraging others to spread kindness and support during Pride Month—and not to be discouraged by hate.
This incident has also led to strong reactions on social media, where many locals expressed support for the business and disappointment that such acts still happen today. The workers say they’ve been touched by the positive messages and are thankful to those standing with them.
For now, they just hope to move forward and continue spreading a message of love and acceptance, even in the face of negativity.