A Liberal Who Thinks Chick-fil-A Owner has the Right to His Beliefs!

By Mildred Robertson

It is troubling that pundits and politicos have chosen to participate in attacking Chick-fil-A owner and COO Dan Cathy for his belief that marriage is between a man and a woman. That may sound like some Tea Party rhetoric, but nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, I am a die-hard Progressive who believes in equal rights, human dignity and the American way.

Just as gay couples and those who support gay marriage have a right to choose their lifestyle and to live it in peace without discrimination from society or government intervention, so does Mr. Cathy. His assertion that, for him, marriage is between one man and one woman may offend some who believe differently, but it is his right to believe it.

Now, if we were talking about a ban on hiring gays, or mistreating gays who were in his employ or who patronize his restaurant, we would be having a different conversation. But there appears to be no evidence to support that assumption.

This is a devout man who has publicly lived a life that he believes honors God and his commandments as he understands them. The many Sundays I have passed a darkened Chick-fil-A (quietly wishing for a sandwich) I have been impressed that he would give up revenue to honor his beliefs. It is a huge testament to his commitment to his faith. I respect that. There are far too many of us who talk the talk, but do not walk the walk.

I also understand the reaction of the gay community when it says it does not want to patronize a company that does not respect them or their lifestyle. If a business is not in step with community attitudes and values, then, generaly, their cash register will reflect that fact.  I do not, however, understand government entities that would threaten to block the location of his business in their community or who would deny him necessary licenses or building permits. I see nothing in our Constitution that supports that position.

America was founded upon the premise that each of us could hold and practice our own belief system as long as those practices do not infringe on the rights of others. While his beliefs may offend some, they do not infringe upon anyone’s rights.

I staunchly support the right of individuals to make their own lifestyle choices. That includes Mr. Cathy. If you so choose, stop buying his chicken. Otherwise, leave the man alone.