Earlier this week, I posted a news item about a self-storage owner who posted a controversial sign.
Russell G. Baker, 60, owns Bakers Auto Body and Self-Storage in Palmer, Mass. Baker, whos been posting signs outside his facility for years, recently posted this controversial message: Muslims are destroying us from within. His comment was in regards to the appointment of two Muslims to Homeland Security in 2009.
Of course, the message sparked controversy in his community. Several Muslim leaders have spoken to the press, saying Bakers message spreads hate and Islamphobia. A few have even reached out to Baker, hoping to educate him about the religion.
Baker claims hes not spreading hate, merely speaking his mind. He also says his messages have never had a negative affect on his business.
When I asked the Self-Storage Talk community about Baker using his self-storage business as a vehicle to publicize his opinions, most agreed he has the right to say whatever he wantseven if others dont agree with the message. Free speech is free speech. While I do not like his message, I defend his right to display it, said SST member Jughead.
They also question whether Bakers statements are truly not affecting his businesseither positively or negatively. Since I am in business to make money and money comes from all different races, religions and cultures I turn a blind eye to these, Handyman posted.
SST member Madman actually lives in Bakers community and has driven by the signs. I'd accept that its his OPINION and keep on driving. I wouldn't store/shop there.
Have you ever posted a controversial message at your facility? Ever endorsed a politician or proposition with signs at your facility? Is a place of business the right venue for political and religious messages? Give us your two cents by posting a comment below or join the discussion already in progress on this Self-Storage Talk thread.