The owner of Grills Seafood Deck and Tiki Bar in Orlando, Joe Penovich, has announced that his restaurant will no longer be serving any products from Bud Light’s parent company Anheuser-Busch. The reason for the decision is a recent partnership between the beer brand and a trans TikTok star, Dylan Mulvaney, which has caused controversy among conservatives. In a post on Facebook, Penovich claimed that his decision was based on his “Biblical faith,” and that “transgenderism is a social experiment” causing “irreversible damage” to children.
Despite research showing that gender-affirming healthcare improves trans people’s mental health, Penovich referred to gender-affirming care for young people as the “epitome of evil.” He also accused Anheuser-Busch of causing division and anger in society. The restaurant’s owner stated that his establishment would be replacing Bud Light products with a locally brewed beer.
The controversy surrounding Mulvaney’s partnership with Bud Light has caused some conservatives to threaten to boycott the brand, with some even going as far as to smash or shoot cans of Bud Light. However, Bud Light has defended its decision to partner with trans people, stating that it is good for business. According to a study conducted by LGBTQ+ charity GLAAD, 59 percent of Americans are more inclined to buy a product or service if the business devotes significant resources to helping the LGBTQ+ community.
Bud Light’s marketing vice-president, Alissa Heinerscheid, explained that the beer needs to ditch its “fratty” representation and become more inclusive in order to continue to grow. She added that Bud Light had previously had a reputation as a “brand of fratty, out-of-touch humour,” and that it was important to have another approach. Heinerscheid has reportedly taken a leave of absence following the conservative, anti-trans backlash.
The controversy surrounding Bud Light’s partnership with Mulvaney highlights the ongoing struggle for trans rights and acceptance in America. While some conservatives continue to resist change, many businesses are recognizing the importance of inclusivity and actively working to support the LGBTQ+ community.