American Family Association (AFA) is calling for a limited two-month boycott of Gap, Old Navy and Banana Republic, the three stores owned by San Francisco-based Gap Inc., over the company’s censorship of the word "Christmas."
The boycott is part of AFA’s ongoing campaign to encourage businesses, communities and individuals to put Christ back in Christmas. The boycott runs from November 1 through Christmas Day. AFA has set up a dedicated website at [url=http://www.boycottgap.com]http://www.boycottgap.com[/url].
For years, Gap has refused to use the word Christmas in its television commercials, newspaper ads and in-store promotions, despite tens of thousands of consumer requests to recognize Christmas and in spite of repeated requests from AFA to do the same.
Last year, Gap issued this politically-correct statement to Christmas shoppers: "Gap recognizes that many traditions are celebrated throughout this season and
we feel it is important to display holiday signage that is inclusive to everyone."
“It's not just a ‘winter holiday,’” said AFA President Tim Wildmon. “For millions of Americans the giving and receiving of gifts is in honor of the One who gave Himself. For Gap to pretend that isn't the foundation of the Christmas season is political correctness at best and religious bigotry at worst.
“Until Gap proves it recognizes Christmas by using it in their newspaper, radio, television advertising or in-store signage, the boycott will be promoted.”
In the past AFA has played a part in convincing other retailers to change their approach. For example, Sears backed away from its censorship of the word "Christmas" and now even offers a "Christmas Club" on its website. Lowe’s has revamped its in-store signage and website to spread “Christmas” to customers nationwide. Wal-Mart has a dedicated “Christmas Shop” in its stores.
Randy Sharp, AFA director of special projects, said that since Gap stores are boycotting Christmas, AFA will boycott Gap, Banana Republic an Old Navy during the Christmas season.
American Family Association is a pro-family advocacy organization with over 2.5 million online supporters.
