Amidst the colorful celebration of Pride Month, Cracker Barrel, a renowned US restaurant chain, finds itself at the center of controversy. The Southern-style eatery recently took to social media to share a message of inclusivity, stating that “everyone is welcome” during Pride month. However, this display of support for the LGBTQ+ community has ignited a fierce backlash from anti-LGBTQ+ right-wing organizations.
The Texas Family Project (TFP) was quick to express its disapproval, claiming that Cracker Barrel had “fallen” and accusing the once family-friendly establishment of surrendering to the “mob.” This unexpected show of solidarity with Pride Month has left many surprised, considering Cracker Barrel’s historical reputation as an anti-LGBTQ+ business.
During the early 1990s, Cracker Barrel faced criticism for firing employees based on their sexuality, as the company deemed it inconsistent with its notion of “traditional American values.” Although the policy was later reversed, the damage to its relationship with the queer community was significant. In an attempt to rebuild its image, Cracker Barrel currently holds a rating of 80 out of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign’s Corporate Equality Index.
In response to Cracker Barrel’s support for Pride Month, the Texas Family Project tweeted a list of places where they believe children should not be taken, including “Gender clinics, drag shows, Cracker Barrel.” However, this outcry from right-wing individuals has been met with mockery from supporters and advocates of LGBTQ+ rights. One Twitter user humorously remarked that “‘Cracker Barrel has fallen’ might be the funniest sentence ever composed using the English language.”
Despite the backlash, there have been voices of appreciation for Cracker Barrel’s progress in LGBTQ+ support since the 1990s. A couple shared an encounter with a Cracker Barrel executive who, upon learning their concerns about the chain’s LGBTQ+ inclusivity, provided them with meal vouchers, reaffirming the company’s commitment to its “everyone is welcome” policy.
This recent controversy surrounding Cracker Barrel echoes similar attempts by right-wing groups to boycott brands that demonstrate inclusivity towards the LGBTQ+ community. Companies such as Bud Light, Nike, Doritos, and the Disney Channel have faced criticism and calls for boycotts due to their advertisements and campaigns in support of queer individuals.
As of now, Cracker Barrel has not responded to the criticism it received for its Pride Month post. However, the company did express gratitude towards a positive comment, emphasizing its dedication to creating a “welcoming, safe atmosphere” for all patrons.
By standing in solidarity with the LGBTQ+ community, Cracker Barrel has become the latest target for anti-LGBTQ+ groups, highlighting the ongoing battle for inclusivity and acceptance in society.