Guido Barilla, the chairman of the world's largest pasta company, made some crazy, ignorant, and idiotic statements about gay people in a recent radio appearance. Great, now we have to worry about our pasta being actively anti-homosexual because nothing can be easy and the whole world is going to hell in a hand basket woven from Barilla spaghetti.
According to Grub Street:
The chairman of pasta company Barilla went on a Radio24 program to explain the company's apparent position against depicting gay couples or families in its advertisements. "I would never do (a commercial) with a homosexual family, not for lack of respect but because we don't agree with them. Ours is a classic family where the woman plays a fundamental role," Guido Barilla said. The executive also told the program's hosts that "if the gays do not agree, they can always eat pasta from another manufacturer," which prompted a swift boycott from advocacy group Equality Italia.
Attempting to backtrack, they posted the following statement on their Facebook page (as translated by Grub Street):
I apologize if my words have generated controversy or misunderstanding, and if they have offended the sensibilities of some people.
For clarity, I wish to point out that I have the deepest respect for all persons, without distinction of any kind.
I have the utmost respect for homosexuals and freedom of expression to anyone.
[...]
Barilla in its advertising has always chosen to represent the family because this is the symbol of hospitality and affection for everyone.
That's a near text book non-apology. Bravo! Also: Stick your tortiglioni where the sun don't shine!
Well, here's to seeking out superior quality, much tastier, less-bigoted pasta brands. Our tastebuds thank you, Guido.