Just last week, the Muppets stood up to Chick-fil-A in the wake of Dan Cathy's unpopular remarks about his company supporting only the "traditional family" and the "biblical definition of marriage." Now, The Berenstain Bears is the latest children's brand to be caught in the fast food chain's controversial web, and it sounds like they're certainly not thrilled to be associated with the franchise!
But, unfortunately, the popular kids' book series' publisher, HarperCollins, had been planning a promo with Chick-fil-A for over a year ...
Nonetheless, the Berenstain family, who owns the copyrights to the series, seems to be trying to set themselves apart from the controversy, posting a note on their official site that states they were "unaware of any controversy involving Chick-fil-A until July 25" and "the Berenstain family does not at this time have control over whether this program proceeds or not." They encourage "those concerned about this issue" to "direct their comments toward HarperCollins and Chick-fil-A."
Fair enough. It's a shame that they're basically in too deep to do anything about the biz deal, but at the very least, this statement proves they're not exactly cheering about associating with Chick-fil-A. You could argue that they should have tried to take a stronger stance -- like the Jim Henson Co. did -- but maybe they couldn't manage it legally ...
In short, I wouldn't hold this against the Berenstains, because I'm guessing their hands really are tied. It's not like they're saying they support Chick-fil-A's politics (a la Sarah Palin!). In fact, I wouldn't be surprised if they're attempting to handle the unfortunate circumstances in a less bold way than the Henson Co. did. Like maybe they'll offer up their check from Chick-fil-A to GLAAD or another pro-gay marriage org down the road? Or maybe they want to remain politically neutral, which would be fine, too.
In the future, though, let's hope Chick-fil-A doesn't attempt to partner with companies that they don't see eye-to-eye with politically. Parents don't need them dragging beloved children's brands down with them.
How do you feel about the Berenstain family's reluctant association with Chick-fil-A?
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Comments 25
This is so stupid.
Let it go people.
Oh come on. We're dealing with the OPINION of ONE person, not the WHOLE company. I understand he's the CEO, but until someone comes up with some proof that they a.) used COMPANY funds to donate to anti gay organizations b.) refuse to serve customers based on sexual orientation or c.) refuse to hire because of sexual orientation, I fail to see why this is such a huge deal. I don't personally agree with him. But I'm smart enough to know that he does not speak for every person associated with the whole company. It's ridiculous to do things that are going to affect WAAAYYYY more people that the one who said it, just so you can feel like you're supporting equality. I completely support the right of individuals to speak with their dollars, and if they feel that strongly that one man speaks for a whole company, then by all means, boycott. But urging other companies to do the same, and supporting cities for purposely trying to eliminate THOUSANDS of jobs in this economy, I think that's just socially irresponsible.
Oh for heaven's sake! This is becoming too much. Seriously people, do you honestly think you will agree with the CEO's point of view of EVERY company you give your business to? NO - get over it already!
Even though I support Chick-Fil-A, I think another reason people are boycotting the restaurant is due to the fact that Chick-Fil-A gives money to companies/organizations that don't support same-sex marriage; and since they due support same-sex marriage they don't feel it's right to give Chick-Fil-A money.
At the end of the day, I want my chicken sandwich! :)
Ugh, this is so simple. This is a (supposedly) free country:
Cathy can feel however he wants.
You can eat wherever you want.
Chick-fil-a can (this is where supposedly comes in) put their stores wherever they want.
Berenstein Bears can associate with whoever they want.
Next topic, please.
Can't blame the Berenstain family one bit for wanting to avoid being targeted as a left wing hate propaganda focal point.
all the people who are making an issue about the chickfila CEO remarks are just illiberal, full of hate and just stupid. We are in a free country, and everyone should have their own beliefs, chickfila doesn't discriminates anyone, they should only be rewarded for their consistency in what they believe. They close on Sunday, they are a dept free company and fallow all the biblical principal, so there is nothing wrong in being against gay marriage, NOT AGAINST GAY AGAINST GAY MARRIEGE!!!! Honestly from now on I'll be going to chickfila for my playdates, their food is awesome, loved their kids meal, much better than McDonald's plastic toys made in china, and pink slime
If this book company really stood for something they would pull out regardless of the money lost etc. Instead they passive aggressively post crap like this while fully accepting payment etc.