A Dairy Queen restaurant in Kewaskum, Wisconsin, is at the center of a heated debate after a note posted on its front window garnered attention both locally and online. The sign boldly declares the restaurant’s commitment to using traditional holiday greetings like “Merry Christmas” and “Happy Easter,” as well as expressing support for veterans on Veterans Day. The owner of the establishment, Kevin Scheunemann, stands by the sign, stating that it has been displayed for nearly four years as a testament to his and his staff’s dedication to serving both God and country. According to Scheunemann, the sign was initially posted in response to a customer complaint about Christian music playing in the restaurant and has not caused any further issues since then.
The recent resurgence of attention to the sign came after a visitor from Oregon shared a photo of it on social media, expressing concerns about its perceived exclusivity. While some individuals support the message conveyed by the sign, others have criticized the individual who shared the photograph and voiced their disagreement. Local business owners have rallied behind Scheunemann’s decision to display the sign, asserting that patrons are free to patronize or refrain from visiting the restaurant based on their personal beliefs. However, Dairy Queen Corporation has distanced itself from Scheunemann’s stance, clarifying that the sign reflects the views of the individual proprietor and is not endorsed by the corporation. In response to the controversy, Dairy Queen emphasized its commitment to respecting customers of all religious backgrounds and reiterated that franchisees and employees are expected to treat everyone with respect and decency, regardless of their beliefs. The situation in Kewaskum highlights the complex interplay between freedom of expression and inclusivity in public spaces. As debates continue to unfold, it serves as a reminder of the importance of fostering open dialogue and mutual respect in diverse communities. Share your thoughts on this contentious issue and join the conversation about freedom of expression and inclusivity in public discourse.