In what has to be the saddest story I've covered in this blog is a group of atheists in Utah are considering legal action against the TIKI Printing company, which is a Christian printing company, for not printing anti-God messages on T-shirts for a LGBT Pride Parade.
Its the classic case of a business owner refusing to make their services or products available to a person or group, based on their rules. Its their right. Its a dangerous area to tip-toe through, as you don't want to be suggest racial and gender discriminations. But, religion, sexual preference, age is that gray area where it generates bad press, when standing up for your beliefs.
In this case, the Christian printing company refused to print the slogan "Gotta Be Real Cuz God Ain't" on a T-shirt because it demanded their belief in God. You can't challenge that, regardless if you feel they over-reacted or not. They can feel however they want.
All that aside, the contemplation over legal action is the stunning part of this. Sure, parties on both sides of the disagreement have hurt feelings. Fine. But, TIKI Printing is in West Valley City, UT, which is in the far west side of the great Salt Lake City, UT area. Are we to honestly believe that TIKI Printing is the only T-shirt printer in the Salt Lake City area…? The atheist group needs to refocus, take their money elsewhere and get on with their lives. But, I understand. This is a battle for God. The poor T-shirts in this sad story are the true un-intended victims.
It goes to show that T-shirts, even when not yet printed, can evoke a very strong emotional response. The right message to the correct target audience can gain you the publicity you desire. Just be aware that is you push things too far, you'll get a negative reaction. Bad press, while still bad press.
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