Oh Chick Fil A…

...If you’re like me, you are sick and tired of hearing about Chick Fil A... but if you’re like me, you know that it’s necessary. I’ve been reading all the comments and thoughts via social media, and I’m starting to realize that people do not really understand the issue that’s being debated and considered... I’m going to try to illustrate what the issue is with a living example... strap in.

I’ve seen a lot of comments stating some around "its Dan Cathy’s first amendment right to say and feel as he does…" That’s right. No one is arguing that regardless if you do or do not agree. In fact, the LGBT community has been aware of this fact for sometime. The issue arose because Dan's comments landed at a time when the country is more fractured than ever about the issue of same-sex marriage. The real life example is this:

"I don’t think Dan Cathy and his wife Rhonda should be allowed to remain married because they are ugly people, inside and out."

Okay, fine. No big deal.

Now, let’s say I’m president (Dan Cathy is not CEO, his pops it) of a company… Clint Co. I make that same statement as president of Clint Co. Fine, whatever, no change. Here’s where it gets ugly. Let’s say I give some of the profits from Clint Co. to some organizations, including organizations that believe and fight for only marriage of people who are beautiful inside and out and fight against the opposite. One of those organizations it even a "certified hate group" that can be known to be violent against this…

How is THAT okay?

I’ll tell you this, it’s not. Click here to see what I’m talking about.

Back to reality, I understand why the LGBT turned the other way for so long. Chick Fil A actually has some redeeming qualities. I like the food, and studies have shown they are one of the healthiest fast food establishments out there (depending what you order). Have you ever gone into a restaurant and had an issue with the staff? They are very polite, professional, and happy to work with customers. The restaurants are kid friendly and have lots of family support. And even though they are closed on Sunday (when people seem to really crave the food), I appreciate giving the employees Sunday off. Before you say anything else, I’m aware that some of these values stem from the companies religious stance. Cool. But can’t these be human values or even "American Values" as stated by Bill Marriot? Check out the link, see that there are other "head honchos" that have strong religious beliefs, but by no means do they make that their professional demeanor that reflects on an entire company. The Marriott is proof... I suddenly want to get a drink and stay at one of Bill’s hotels.

You all know my thoughts on Gay/Civil Rights, and that is what has stemmed everything in this debate. But this raised the stakes when personal beliefs stated mixing will business, and basically causing a company to become a bigot. This has nothing to do with chicken, but with people. I am sure that every single person on this planet, regardless of how strongly you feel, knows someone who is homosexual. These people might be in hiding due to your beliefs, and who knows what that will lead to (see the link), but this is something that affects people we know... Keep that all in mind the next time you wait in long lines to support a company that gives the money you spend to organizations against the orientation of your friends, co workers, acquaintances, and/or family.

As always, happy to discuss, so comment, especially if you think I missed something, am wrong about something, or you have a valid argument. If you want to read more about this issue, check out this blog.