I interrupt my normal programming to give a thumbs-up to Walmart for advertising that has the American Family Association unhappy.
Walmart has posted a video in a series: Love in the Aisle: A dating show at Walmart. A couple of guys bond on a blind date at Walmart over merchandise — scented candles, Little Debbie cakes, cookware. The AFA, a rabid anti-gay “religious” group, is not happy about it. From their e-mail blast:
The ad in question is part of a campaign called “Love is in the aisle: A dating show at Walmart.” Episode 2 features Pat and Andy, two homosexual men on a blind date as they meet at the store and shop together. Through this process, they discover whether or not they are compatible.
In an Action Alert to its nearly 1 million friends and supporters, AFA is urging those who want to communicate to Walmart to sign a petition, urging the retailer to remove the pro-homosexual video and remain neutral on controversial issues.
“It’s clear that Walmart is on the path of elevating homosexual relationships to the same level as the male-female model of marriage,” Wildmon added. “We have no choice but to ask our supporters to let the company know how customers feel about Walmart’s shift away from neutrality on this controversial issue to full support for same sex relationships.”
Hey, Walmart. Thanks. Your ad had a positive impact on my feelings about Walmart (though the vast parking lots remain a major disincentive.)
Walmart has made other overtures supportive of those of different sexual orientation, including their own employees, so this really isn’t new. But good for their inclusive view on love.