Voodoo Pencil Case Upsets Parents In Australia

A canvas voodoo pencil case that includes a space to put a small photo of your 'target' has Australian parents and school authorities upset.

Kids group director Julie Gale said the voodoo pencil product is typical of companies who produced inappropriate products without thinking about the consequences.

"It's basically a voodoo doll, and it's potentially a very powerful tool for bullies," she says. "I think it�s typical lack of awareness from retailers, just thinking it's a cute idea not really thinking it through. It's just not appropriate."

The case includes black and red heart-shaped pins ready to stick into the body-shaped case.

Some critics in the country believe the case will simply encourage children to hex their friends.

"Whilst it might seem innocuous, it goes against the messages our children are taught for their well being and safety," Gale says in a public letter to the company. "Given that a large proportion of your customers are primary and early secondary aged girls - selling products like this could be seen as a social/public condoning of such behaviours."

Jason Murray, CEO of manufacturer Smiggle, says there was "no intent" in making the product a tool for bullying others and it will reconsider its Voodoo pencil case after the unexpected bevy of complaints.

See the pencil case below:

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