Faced with backlash from a predominantly LGBTQ+ community, a newly opened politics-themed bar in Washington, D.C. was compelled to erase a GOP elephant from its logo.
In the heart of Washington, D.C., adorned with vibrant rainbow flags, a newly established political bar, "Political Pattie's," encountered a storm of opposition for displaying the iconic GOP elephant alongside the Democratic donkey on its facade.
The bar's bold choice of imagery sparked outrage within the local community, particularly among gay residents who felt the presence of the elephant symbolized an unwelcome presence. Social media erupted with fervent objections, declaring that a business openly embracing the GOP symbol would not find acceptance in an area celebrated for its LGBTQ+ culture.
New DC Political Bar Forced to Remove GOP Symbol Amid Community Outrage
Amid mounting pressure, "Political Pattie's" owners, Andrew Benbow and Sydney Bradford, moved swiftly to appease the community's concerns. Just days before the grand opening, they erased both party symbols from the establishment's exterior, releasing a statement acknowledging the hurt the elephant had caused.
"Upon painting our logo on the facade, we recognized the potential harm inflicted by the elephant," Benbow and Bradford stated. "Out of respect, we chose to remove it, along with the donkey, to ensure an inclusive and respectful atmosphere."
New DC Political Bar Forced to Remove GOP Symbol Amid Community Outrage
Benbow and Bradford, a couple who stand on opposite sides of the political spectrum but share a unified support for Vice President Kamala Harris in 2024, expressed shock at the backlash. They envisioned "Political Pattie's" as a catalyst for discourse and unity, fostering a space where both sides of the political aisle could engage in civil discussions.
"Political Pattie's aspires to be a sanctuary of fun and inclusivity, treating politics with a lighthearted touch rather than delving into the pain politics often inflict," the couple explained. They condemned the cyberbullying they faced, asserting that their bar would remain a welcoming space for all, regardless of political affiliation or LGBTQ+ identity.
New DC Political Bar Forced to Remove GOP Symbol Amid Community Outrage
Benbow and Bradford defended their decision to operate in the location where they faced opposition, emphasizing their right to do business and the prevalence of hasty judgments in society. "Pattie's' experience serves as a reflection of society's tendency to make snap judgments based on superficial appearances," they remarked. "All too often, minorities, disabled individuals, and LGBTQ+ individuals bear the brunt of such prejudices, which can have disastrous consequences."
The removal of the GOP logo sparked mixed reactions. Some welcomed the decision as a gesture of respect for the community's values, while others saw it as a form of censorship. Nevertheless, "Political Pattie's" remains committed to its mission of fostering respectful political dialogue, irrespective of political affiliation or any other form of diversity.
