Monday, January 31, 2011

Chick-fil-A, gay people and your stomach

News that a Harrisburg, Pa. Chick-fil-A donated food to a marriage seminar offered by one of the states leading anti-gay organizations created an uproar across the United States. Although the news isn't shocking -- Chick-fil-A is known for its strict Christian values (i.e. it's closed on Sundays) -- it is forcing some people and groups to boycott eating at the chain.
In sponsoring the Art of Marriage Conference, many people believe this is a way for the organization to take a stance on gay marriage and support the anti-gay movement.
Chick-fil-A answered this outrage by posting a video on its Facebook fan page stating that the company values all people. Is that enough of a response? With people completely outraged and ready to boycott -- gay is a blazing hot topic these days with marriage and Don't Ask Don't Tell -- this response is inadequate and lazy.
So, this makes me wonder ... will this news make you boycott the organization? When choosing what to eat, not many people consider the company or its stance on hot topics ... many people simply think, "is the food good?" I have seen firsthand some of these Chick-fil-A fanatics who travel around the country to Chick-fil-A openings -- they are serious about their chicken. When Americans like a product, they typically stay true.
However, if you are hell bent on boycotting Chick-fil-A, would this, in turn, make you look into other places you frequent? Other fast food chains and chain restaurants? Grocery stores? Gas stations? Online shopping? How about different brands of food or clothing or appliances? If you are going to take a stand, you might as well go balls to the wall!
The only reason Chick-fil-A is at the center of this outrage is because the topic of gays is so controversial, awkward and hot right now. News outlets across the country saw this story and knew it would be popular, knew that the people behind the forces of Pro-gay and Anti-gay would have their buttons pushed! In turn, these forces are at the ready to boycott anyone who shares different beliefs. The Pro-gay people are pissed and the Anti-gay people are in love!
Chick-fil-A's response is weak and speaks for their feelings -- they are an evangelical organization that is closed on Sundays and have been known to check in to their employees martial status and church affiliation. Are you surprised they don't like gay people? Why don't you ask them about abortion? Screw "Love thy neighbor," these people are "born again" and think they know who is bad and who is good and act accordingly.
If gay supporters across America want to boycott Chick-fil-A, then do it! Good for them! However, they need to be strict in their support. Look in to other organizations and call them out for affiliations and support of questionable groups. If not, then go ahead and stuff your gut with a damn spicy chicken sandwich and shut up already!
As for Chick-fil-A, if you don't like the uproar then stop supporting organizations with such strong views on such controversial topics!

1 comment:

  1. Until Chick-Fil-A is open 7 days a week like most other american food businesses they can kick rocks....

    ReplyDelete