CINCINNATI (WKRC) – Chick-fil-A announced this week the company has refocused where they will donate their foundation dollars.
The private company, known for its conservative views, has faced criticism in the past over same-sex marriage. Northern Kentucky LGBTQ activist Bonnie Meyer boycotts the restaurant.
“I think it’s laughable because we say we’re not funding an organization that contributes to hate and bias of this community. Then all of a sudden, people should up and forgive the homophobia and the transphobia over the years to purchase the chicken sandwich or whatever they’re going for,” said Meyer.
The Chick-fil-A Foundation has in the past donated to Christian organizations, such as the Salvation Army, a charitable company that has been scrutinized by the LGBTQ community.
The restaurant has seem to cut ties with the Salvation Army and released a statement:
We’re saddened to learn that a corporate partner has felt it necessary to divert funding to other hunger, education and homelessness organizations — areas in which The Salvation Army, as the largest social services provider in the world, is already fully committed. We serve more than 23 million individuals a year, including those in the LGBTQ+ community. In fact, we believe we are the largest provider of poverty relief to the LGBTQ+ population. When misinformation is perpetuated without fact, our ability to serve those in need, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, religion or any other factor, is at risk. We urge the public to seek the truth before rushing to ill-informed judgment and greatly appreciate those partners and donors who ensure that anyone who needs our help feels safe and comfortable to come through our doors.
Credo Bizimana is still a customer and not fazed by the company’s beliefs.
“Personally, I don’t think that people’s views are going to stop me from doing what I want or getting what I want, and sometimes I just want Chick-fil-A,” said Bizimana.
While the LGBTQ community says this is a step in the right direction, they still hope for more action.
”They could have taken efforts from within to pass inclusive non-discrimination policies within the company to add sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression to their non-discrimination policy,” said Meyer.
The Chick-fil-A Foundation’s announcement said it committed $9 million to other projects dealing with education, homelessness and hunger.
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