Posted on 06/07/2005 8:27:32 PM PDT by Barte45
Kraft Foods, makers of popular products like Macaroni and Cheese, Kraft Singles, Oreo cookies, Maxwell House coffee, and Ritz Crackers is a major sponsor of the "2006 Gay Games" in Chicago. Please make a personal phone call to Kraft at 1-800-323-0768 and tell them to pull their $25,000+ in financial support from this homosexual organization.
The following is an internal memo that defends the move to sponsor the Gay Games in the name of diversity.
From: Marc Firestone, Executive Vice President, Corporate Counsel and Corporate Secretary, Kraft Foods Inc.
Subject: Kraft's Contribution to 2006 Gay Games
The true test of any commitment is how you respond when challenged. Kraft is experiencing this to a degree right now, as a result of our decision to be one of several contributors to the 2006 Gay Games in Chicago. The games will bring together thousands of athletes in a competition that will take place in our corporate hometown.
In recent days, the company has received many e-mails, the majority of them generated through the America Family Association, which objects to our sponsorship. We also have received calls and e-mails -- not as many, but equally passionate -- thanking us for supporting this event. A member of Chicago Mayor Richard Daley's team said, "We applaud the businesses that are sponsors of the Gay Games, including Kraft Foods."
You may have questions or might have had questions from friends and family about our contribution to this event. While Kraft certainly doesn't go looking for controversy, we have long been dedicated to support the concept and the reality of diversity. It's the right thing to do and it's good for our business and our work environment.
Diversity makes us a stronger company and connects us with the diversity that exists among the consumers who buy our products.
Diversity is more than a word many people like to say. At Kraft we truly respect all kinds of differences. And diversity is not a selective concept. By definition, it's nothing if not inclusive. We respect diversity of ethnicity, gender, experience, background, personal style and yes, sexual orientation and gender identity. Recognizing, respecting and valuing these differences helps us be a more successful business and a workplace where all employees can realize their full potential.
For more than a decade, we have had employee councils that promote our awareness of diversity. The newest of our nine diversity councils is the Rainbow Council, which strives to provide a forum for support and networking among gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgender employees; raise awareness within Kraft and promote involvement in the community. Each council has an executive sponsor and I have been the Rainbow Council's sponsor since last year.
Through all of our councils, we support various initiatives that demonstrate how strongly we believe in diversity, through involvement in the community. Our sponsorship of the 2006 Gay Games is one of almost 1,700 cash and in-kind grants we make annually.
It can be difficult when we are criticized. It's easy to say you support a concept or a principle when nobody objects. The real test of commitment is how one reacts when there are those who disagree. I hope you share my view that our company has taken the right stand on diversity, including its contribution to the 2006 Gay Games in Chicago.
I have to ask....what are the "Gay" Games? and do any of them involve Velveeta?
"Gay games" I assume are Olympic style competitions, but just involve the Gay, Lesbian and Trans community
I'm sure The Gay Games will be the sweetest show on earth, but I already do not buy any of the products you listed on the grounds of good taste.
I wonder if they will have 3 separate sex categories, for Males, Females and Whatever?
"New York will bend over backwards to host the Gay Games."
Unfortunatly, I'm drawing a blank on the councilman.
Some of the top games are,
Fudge Packing, Racing the Hershey Highway, Upside down barstool climbing. Seatless cycling, Javelin swallowing etc..
You forgot the Crystal Methathon.
I don't know where on this councilman you're drawing this, um, "blank," but the whole thing sounds kinda gay to me. :-)
Just when you thought it was safe to go back in the refrigerator . . .
I don't know if I can give up Ritz crackers,I really don't.
They are like "mom and apple pie' to me.
It's just so wrong
Ferret races?
Yuk.
gerbil tossing?
Well, that sure is a gay logo.
What is that thing lying on the waves? looks like one of the figures dropped a big one.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.