Sign On Bar’s Entrance Provokes Controversy; Manager Says It Has Boosted Sales
Note: This story, originally reported in June 2018, is being republished.
During an evening out, Victor Fiorillo chose to visit the Old Philadelphia Bar, a well-known spot in the City of Brotherly Love. Although he was looking forward to a beer and some friendly conversation, he was taken aback by a sign he noticed in the window. Despite this, he decided to enter and make a purchase. That’s when an unusual moment occurred.
A patron approaching the jukebox declared loudly to everyone that he was a former firefighter and of Mexican descent, although he quickly added that the latter was meant as a joke. He then inserted a coin into the jukebox and selected “God Bless the USA,” a song by Lee Greenwood from 1984. As the song filled the bar with its patriotic chorus, the entire crowd began to sing along.
The bar’s front door features a notable sign that caught Fiorillo’s attention: “If you’re not proud to be an American, do not bother to come in.”
This sign is a recent addition to the bar, which has been a fixture in its Philadelphia neighborhood for many years. The establishment wants patrons to know they can expect a strong sense of patriotic spirit inside.
The bar also maintains some of its traditional aspects, such as affordable drinks – $1.50 pints of domestic beer, and $1 beers during televised sports events. It prides itself on being free from what it considers “hipster” influence, criticizing the influx of professionals and yuppies into the area.
A Google review highlights the bar’s stance: “Not crowded with hipsters. And even if some do show up, they keep their foolishness to themselves.”
When a passerby photographed the sign and shared it in a local Philadelphia Facebook group, the reaction was one of shock and disapproval. Many were taken aback by the bar’s apparent message.
Some locals, particularly those from diverse backgrounds, have expressed apprehension about the bar. One resident, who mentioned her Indian boyfriend, told Fiorillo she would avoid the place due to concerns about the atmosphere.
The bar manager seemed unconcerned by the controversy, with one bartender stating, “If you’re in this country, you should be proud to be an American.”
What are your thoughts on the bar’s sign?
Sources: Philly Mag