Why do they call it Black Friday?

This dark joke plays on the dual meanings of the phrase “at a steal.” “Black Friday” refers to the day after Thanksgiving in the United States, traditionally one of the busiest shopping days of the year, known for its significant sales and discounts. Retailers often go from being “in the red” (operating at a loss) to “in the black” (profitable) on this day, hence the term “Black Friday.”
The humor in the joke comes from the expression “at a steal,” which commonly means to buy something at a very low price, as if it’s such a good deal it’s almost like stealing. However, “steal” also literally means to take something unlawfully. So, the joke suggests that the discounts on Black Friday are so substantial that it feels like the items are being practically given away, akin to stealing. Regarding Black individuals and theft, it is a stereotype with deep roots in racial prejudice and has been used to justify discriminatory practices. It’s critical to understand that crime is not inherent to any racial or ethnic group; it’s influenced by various factors, including socioeconomic status, opportunities, and systemic issues.