What do Hardee’s and Home Depot have in common? Both companies are dabbling in areas that are best left alone. Both are pandering to individuals and groups that enjoy public displays of explicit sexual activities. I sent letters to the presidents of these companies asking them to consider changing their marketing strategies.
Joe MackI believe South Carolina Baptists are offended by the recent display of sexuality in the promotions and ads from Hardee’s. It seems the fast-food restaurant no longer cares about families. The new slogan about meat, the sultry commercials, the French maids’ tour, the sexual innuendos in the biscuit hole ads/Web content – all seem to be directed at a prurient element that parents would not want around their children.
I asked Hardee’s to consider redirecting marketing plans to emphasize their products in such a way that does not use sex as a gimmick. It would be better for them to emphasize the quality of the food and specialty drinks instead of promoting sexuality.
Home Depot is a fine retail outlet for home improvement and decor. According to the Nashville Gay Pride Web site, Home Depot gave more than $5,000 to be a major sponsor of its 2009 Gay Pride Festival in June. I understand Home Depot has also sponsored kid’s booths at gay events in Atlanta, Kansas City, Durham, Portland and San Diego.
Southern Baptists have a long-held tradition of protecting children from vulgar or inappropriate content. Home Depot’s financial support of gay pride parades is a huge disappointment. We believe Home Depot’s decision to include children’s activities at these events is irresponsible. Home Depot should not be encouraging children to participate in a lifestyle that leads to unhealthy and risky behavior.
Southern Baptists have a guiding document of faith. The Baptist Faith & Message states: “The gift of gender is thus part of the goodness of God’s creation – In the spirit of Christ, Christians should oppose racism, every form of greed, selfishness, and vice, and all forms of sexual immorality, including adultery, homosexuality and pornography.” From these statements, we can interpret gay pride events as selfish portrayals of sexual immorality.
I asked Home Depot to reconsider its decision to fund this type of activity in the community. The majority of the people who shop at Home Depot would rather spend their money where it is not going to fund homosexual events that encourage children to celebrate unwholesome activities.
I encourage you to call the managers of your local Hardee’s and Home Depot. Tell them what you think of their promotions. If you are so motivated, tell them your money will be going to their competition until these activities end. No matter how you feel, please pray for the people who run these businesses. Pray for the people who make the marketing decisions. Both companies are on a slippery slope, and we would like to see them rethink the future.