Ben & Jerry’s social media post supporting abortion providers has ignited a fierce backlash from conservative figures and social media users, with calls for boycotts amplifying across platforms as the ice cream giant faces accusations of celebrating what critics call “the murder of innocent human beings.”

Quick Takes

• Ben & Jerry’s publicly celebrated National Abortion Provider Appreciation Day on social media, directing followers to their website for more pro-abortion content
• Senator Ted Cruz and prominent conservative voices condemned the company, calling their stance “tragic” and “revolting”
• Critics launched a boycott movement, encouraging consumers to switch to competitors like Blue Bell
• The controversy highlights the growing divide between corporate activism and traditional values
• Ben & Jerry’s has a long history of progressive activism, maintaining an independent social mission board even after being acquired by Unilever

Ice Cream Brand’s Abortion Stance Sparks Outrage

Ben & Jerry’s stepped into a political minefield this week when the popular ice cream company posted support for National Abortion Provider Appreciation Day across its social media platforms. The company’s post declared “We stand with abortion providers today and every day,” and directed followers to visit their website for additional content explaining why they support abortion providers. The company’s website highlighted what they described as threats to providers and impacts on communities of color, framing abortion as an essential healthcare service that faces opposition from “white supremacy.”

The stance immediately triggered a wave of criticism from pro-life advocates, conservative politicians, and social media users who expressed shock at the company’s enthusiastic endorsement of what many view as a deeply controversial practice. Critics pointed out that the timing was particularly notable, as National Abortion Provider Appreciation Day was established to honor Dr. David Gunn, who was murdered by an anti-abortion activist in 1993. Many conservatives questioned whether promoting abortion services aligned with the wholesome family image traditionally associated with ice cream.

We're boycotting @benandjerrys for celebrating baby killers.

Who's with us? 🙋‍♂️🙋‍♀️ pic.twitter.com/zpvWD50k54

— LifeNews.com (@LifeNewsHQ) March 11, 2025

Conservative Figures Lead Boycott Movement

Prominent conservative voices were quick to condemn Ben & Jerry’s, with Texas Senator Ted Cruz writing: “Tragic. Ben & Jerry’s hates you and openly hates your values.” Cruz explicitly encouraged his followers to “Throw Ben & Jerry’s in the trash. Buy Blue Bell instead!” His sentiment was echoed across conservative media outlets, which characterized Ben & Jerry’s as “the most insufferable company in America” for its persistent injection of progressive politics into its brand identity.

Pro-life activist Abby Johnson delivered one of the most direct criticisms, writing: “It’s disgusting that you’re cheering for the slaughter of innocent human beings. Disgusting.” The Daily Wire’s Michael Knowles similarly condemned the company, suggesting that while many conservatives had previously tolerated the company’s left-leaning politics, the celebration of abortion providers crossed a line that would drive away customers who oppose abortion on moral or religious grounds.

History of Corporate Activism

This controversy adds to Ben & Jerry’s established record of political activism on progressive causes. The company has previously taken stands on issues including LGBTQ+ rights, climate change, and even international politics, such as their decision to stop selling ice cream in Israel’s occupied territories. Despite being acquired by consumer goods giant Unilever in 2021, Ben & Jerry’s maintains an independent board specifically tasked with upholding its social mission and activism.

The timing of this controversy is significant as abortion remains one of the most divisive issues in American politics, particularly following the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Since that ruling, Republican-led states have implemented various restrictions on abortion, while Democrat-led states have moved to enshrine and expand access. Corporate weighing in on such contentious issues increasingly risks alienating significant portions of their customer base, as evident in the immediate calls for boycotts following Ben & Jerry’s post.