SAN ANTONIO -- As the San Antonio International Airport updates its food and shopping options, the San Antonio City Council has decided to remove Chick-Fil-A from the list.
- Chick-Fil-A won't be coming to the SA Airport
- Some council members have concerns about its political stances
- Will find another vendor to fill spot
On Thursday, city council considered a contract for nine new vendors, most of which are local companies.
However, some council members expressed concern about adding the fast food chicken restaurant, citing its history of anti-LGBT stances.
San Antonio’s non-discrimination ordinance prohibits employers from discriminating against employees for many reasons, including their sexual orientation and gender identity.
Councilman Roberto Treviño of District 1 proposed approved the contract, with an amendment to replace Chick-Fil-A with another vendor.
His proposal stirred debate over several matters, including whether the city could needs to ask the other vendors about their LGBT stances.
Councilman Greg Brockhouse of District 6 agreed with Treviño, but wanted to discuss the matter further in a B session.
“Food and culture matter. People come into the City of San Antonio through that airport, it’s very important what perception we put out there, what message we’re sending,” Brockhouse said.
Other council members, such as Councilman John Courage of District 9, called this a social issue and said the contract is fine as it is.
“I will not support a move to eliminate a particular company because of its social standing, from an existing offer as well, so I’ll be opposed to both of these,” Courage said.
Ultimately, the contract passed to add eight new vendors, with Treviño’s proposed amendment to find a replacement restaurant for Chick-Fil-A.
Chick-Fil-A released the following statement:
“The press release issued by Councilmember Treviño was the first we heard of his motion and its approval by the San Antonio City Council. We agree with him that everyone is and should feel welcome at Chick-fil-A. We have a fundamental code of conduct at Chick-fil-A: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. The 140,000 people who serve customers in our restaurants on a daily basis represent and embrace all people, regardless of race, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation or gender identity. Our intent is to have a positive influence on all who come in contact with Chick-fil-A.
We would still welcome the opportunity to have a thoughtful dialogue with the city council and plan to reach out to them. It’s unfortunate that mischaracterizations of our brand have led to decisions like this. The sole focus of the Chick-fil-A Foundation is to support causes focused on youth and education. We are proud of the positive impact we are making in communities across America and have been transparent about our giving on our web site.”