A provocative message displayed on the front window of a Dairy Queen restaurant in Kewaskum, Wisconsin, has ignited a heated online controversy. The sign proudly proclaims the restaurant’s commitment to honoring traditional holidays like Christmas and Easter, as well as expressing gratitude to veterans on Veterans Day.

According to Kevin Scheunemann, the restaurant’s owner, the sign was erected nearly four years ago as a testament to his and his staff’s devotion to their faith and country. Scheunemann explains that the sign was initially put up in response to a customer complaint about the Christian music played in the restaurant. Since then, the sign had not garnered much attention until recently.

The sign’s renewed notoriety began when an Oregon tourist posted a picture of it on Facebook, sparking a heated debate about its inclusivity. While some people have expressed support for the message, others have criticized the sharing of the image. Local business owners have rallied behind Scheunemann, asserting that customers are free to take their business elsewhere if they disagree with the sign’s message.

In response to the controversy, the Dairy Queen company has issued a statement clarifying that Scheunemann’s approach does not reflect its official stance. The company emphasizes the importance of treating all customers with respect, regardless of their religious beliefs.