New York City Rite Aide accused of homophobia in very gay neighborhood

Posted on July 10, 2008
Filed Under Gay News Blog

Some gay bloggers in New York are all riled up over this sign that allegedly appeared in a Rite Aid drug store in the heart of the West Village.

The sign which, above, reads:

“This store does not believe in Gay and Lesbian marriages. Any same sex activity which includes kissing, hugging, touching or anything that would make our customers feel comfortable is prohibited in the store [sic.]” – Tom Marquez, Rite Aide Management.

These words evidently appeared on four or five signs hung on entrances and through out the New York City Rite Aide store.

After receiving calls from patrons and our friend Jeremy Hooper over at Good As You, Rite Aide employees have claimed that Mr. Marquez is not an employee of that Rite Aide.

One Queerty reader says he called to find out that Marquez is actually the big boss.

”When I called yesterday to complain the woman at the Rite Aid told me that Tom Marquez wasn’t the store manager but the manager for the whole area. so I don’t think it’s a phony name…I think he’s definitely a real person. In the audio link the store employee doesn’t say she doesn’t know who Tom is, she only says he doesn’t work in that store. He’s probably regional management, but maybe someone put it up and just used his name.”

Some activists are calling for a demonstration of massive kissing inside the store while others ask that you call the location to express your concern. Here’s the number: 212-727-3720.

See the sign @ New York City Rite Aide accused of homophobia in very gay neighborhood
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