Boston mayor says ‘anti-gay’ Chick-fil-A not welcome

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The mayor of Boston has said that fast food chain Chick-fil-A will find it “very difficult” to open in Boston because of its statements on marriage equality.

Mayor Thomas M Menino suggested he would block the chain from opening in the city because it “discriminates against a population”.

The chicken food chain says it is founded on Biblical values. Last week, the firm’s chief operating officer, Dan Cathy, said Chick-fil-A was “guilty as charged” on its opposition to equal marriage rights.

Chick-fil-A has given millions of dollars to groups including the Family Research Council, Exodus International and Focus on the Family.

According to the Boston Herald, Mr Menino said: “Chick-fil-A doesn’t belong in Boston. You can’t have a business in the city of Boston that discriminates against a population. We’re an open city, we’re a city that’s at the forefront of inclusion.

“Chick-fil-A doesn’t belong in Boston. You can’t have a business in the city of Boston that discriminates against a population. We’re an open city, we’re a city that’s at the forefront of inclusion.”

He added: “If they need licences in the city, it will be very difficult — unless they open up their policies.”

The chain has not responded to requests for comment.