Freedom of speech goes both ways, and on Monday evening (Sept. 19), those who disagree with the “MUSLIMS GET OUT” statement on the sign at Treats Family Restaurant, formed a peaceful protest outside of the establishment.
With posters in hand, they brought awareness to the sign they say offends them with “a racist statement.”
Just as protesters were gathering on Railway Street, Treats Family Restaurant Owner Karen Ruedinger was just a few feet away adding the words “IN SUPPORT OF ST CLOUD” beneath “MUSLIMS GET OUT.”
“I do not agree with their sign,” stated protester Payten Estepp, of Lonsdale. “It’s not Muslims, it’s ISIS. That’s blaming a whole group for something one person did. I saw a picture of the sign on Facebook and thought ‘That’s not OK.’”
“I’ve lived here for 24 years and that sign is the exact opposite of the family values the restaurant claims to have,” stated protester Samantha Wilson, of Lonsdale. “I believe in freedom of speech but stereotyping based on religion is ridiculous.”
Protester Grace Revier, age 14, of Lonsdale, added: “I think that saying Muslims can’t be somewhere is terrible. We learn in school to be respectful of everyone.”
They said that as they were standing there, some showed support for what they were doing, but at least one person who disagreed with their stand attempted to start an altercation.