A Dairy Queen franchise in Wisconsin has been making headlines with a sign that some are calling “politically incorrect.” The sign, which has been up for about four years, proudly proclaims the restaurant’s commitment to traditional values like faith, patriotism, and support for the military. It also notes that staff members will greet customers with phrases like “Merry Christmas,” “Happy Easter,” and “God Bless America.”
The sign was originally put up by the franchise owner, Kevin Scheunemann, in response to a customer complaint about the Christian music being played in the restaurant. At the time, it didn’t generate much buzz locally, but things changed when a visitor from Oregon posted a photo of the sign on Facebook. The post quickly went viral, sparking heated debates about the inclusivity of the message.
While some have criticized the sign for being insensitive or exclusionary, many local residents and business owners have come out in support of Scheunemann’s right to express his views. They argue that it’s up to individual customers to decide whether or not to patronize the restaurant. Others have praised the sign as a refreshing expression of traditional values in a small community.
The controversy surrounding the sign has ignited a broader discussion about freedom of expression, inclusivity, and the role of businesses in expressing personal beliefs. While opinions on the matter are sharply divided, one thing is clear: the sign has become a lightning rod for debate and a testament to the enduring power of free speech.