Chick-fil-A in S. Phila. draws protest

ABI REIMOLD / Staff Photographer

Making their feelings evident at the South Phila. protest are Mika Ela (left) and Jaden Rogers.

By Robert Moran

Inquirer Staff Writer

More than 60 protesters staged a "kiss-in" at a South Philadelphia Chick-fil-A restaurant on Friday night, joining same-sex couples around the country targeting recent comments opposing gay marriage by the president of the fast-food chain.

In New Jersey, activists instead chose to contact operators of Chick-fil-A stores requesting meetings to talk about the controversy surrounding Dan Cathy and his public opposition to same-sex marriage.

At the Chick-fil-A on Columbus Boulevard, same-sex couples and supporters of gay marriage traded smooches in front of TV cameras to the bemusement of some customers.

"I think they're nuts," said Theresa Locascio, 63, of South Philadelphia. "What's this world coming to?"

Another patron was Apostle Robert D. Baker of the True Church of Christ, who complained that it was wrong to be "tonguing and kissing mouth to mouth" in front of the restaurant.