It's nothing if not a week of controversial video statements on Facebook ...
The firestorm over whether national restaurant chain Chick-fil-A has an anti-gay agenda continued again this week after company president Dan Cathy defended a local franchise's decision to cater a marriage conference in Pennsylvania.
Gay rights advocates and bloggers criticized Chick-fil-A for co-sponsoring an event with the Pennsylvania Family Institute, an organization that was actively trying to ban gay marriage; some even called for a boycott of the chicken chain.
So, did Cathy's Facebook video defense put the concerns to rest or fan the flame of resentment? Well, that's for you to decide ...
In his statement, Cathy denied that Chick-fil-A had sponsored the event, arguing that it had simply provided sandwiches and brownies for lunch and that this in no way meant that the company's beliefs were aligned with PFI. (This, despite the fact that a flyer for the conference stated the conference was sponsored by PFI and Chick-fil-A.) Nevertheless, he maintained:
Providing food to this event or any event is not an endorsement of the mission, political stance, or motives of this or any other organization.
But his message was lost on certain gay advocate groups who were angered when he praised the conference for its emphasis on strengthening marriage and shared that, "Marriage has long been a focus of Chick-fil-A, starting with my own mom and dad who are celebrating their 63rd year of marriage."
The fact that he did not specify what kind of marriage should be strengthened led many opponents to assume he was not in support of marriage between people of the same sex.
While Cathy may think he has set the record straight on whether Chick-fil-A has a gay agenda, others are still scratching their heads in confusion.
Do you think Chick-fil-A has an anti-gay agenda? Will that stop you from eating there?
Image via Facebook
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Comments 61
Chick-fil-a is basically based on Christian principles--i.e. they are not open on Sundays, etc.
They donate funds to Focus on the Family. That is enough reason for me to NEVER give them money ever again.
Oh, my, heavens. It's getting to the point where places are going to need six months in advance notice before providing catering to any kind of event, in order to do CIA type investigations into every action for the last ten years.
Having worked in restaurants my entire life, I can hear the conversations in my head. The people who want the donation point out all the good their charity does. The restaurant negotiates advertising. (placement of logo by sandwich tray.)
The end.
mommix4 ...Um...its really not a huge difference, actually.
Truett Cathy, the founder of Chick-Fil-A, was Southern Baptist, and founded his company on Christian principals. Though not Baptist myself, I am a Christian and I will continue to support Chick-Fil-A for promoting family values. And also because their chicken is very tasty.