June marks Pride Month, a time many people—whether part of the LGBTQIA+ community or allies—use to celebrate and show support. Stores and small businesses commonly offer Pride-themed merchandise and treats during this month.
In Lufkin, Texas, one local bakery joined the Pride celebration by offering rainbow-decorated cookies. Instead of a simple, positive response, the bakery faced an intense backlash from some community members: orders were canceled, cruel comments were posted, and many longtime customers vowed not to return.
Co-owner Dawn Cooley, who runs the bakery alongside her sister Miranda, said the reaction was shocking and painful. The business had already struggled during the pandemic and had come close to closing several times, so the flood of negativity hit hard.
Despite the hurtful messages, Cooley noted that positive responses quickly multiplied. For every negative comment, she said they received many more messages of support and encouragement.
“We just made a rainbow heart cookie,” Cooley said. The sisters described their gesture as a small, heartfelt act rather than a political statement. They said they didn’t expect attention—especially not hostility—and that their intention has always been simple kindness and community service.
After sharing how devastated they were by the cancellations and negative messages, the bakery received an outpouring of local and regional support. The next day, customers lined up around the block to buy cookies and show solidarity. The shop sold out within hours.
Following that surge, business picked up dramatically. Supporters from near and far have continued to purchase the bakery’s treats, helping the sisters rebuild after the difficult period. Their rainbow cookies have been a frequent sellout as customers rally behind the small business.
The response shows how community support can counteract hostility: a simple, inclusive gesture sparked both criticism and compassion, but ultimately brought renewed attention and much-needed business to the bakery.