NFL’s Most Iconic Sponsor Might Cancel Over Player Anthem Protests And They Want Your Input
Ever since the NFL players decided to protest the national anthem, people have taken sides. Some people believe it is in their right to protest while others think it’s in bad taste. While it may be the players right to protest, it’s also the fans right to stop watching. Without the fans, there would be no NFL so maybe it’s a bad idea considering ratings have been dropping.
Many sponsors have also stood behind the NFL players but they might be changing their tune in the wake of recent TV ratings.
In the wake of increased national anthem protests, Anheuser-Busch is reconsidering their NFL sponsorship, likely because the protests are very unpopular among everyday Americans. Bud Light currently serves as the official beer of the NFL.
So the company set up a hotline for fans to call and give their thoughts about the protests and Anheuser-Busch’s sponsorship of the NFL. The number for the hotline is: 1-800-342-5283.
When a customer calls the number, they are greeted by a recorded voice who gives them the opportunity to voice their opinions about the protests.
“If you are calling with questions or comments about Anheuser-Busch’s sponsorship of the NFL, press one,” the voice says. “At Anheuser-Busch we have a long heritage of supporting the nation’s armed forces, veterans and military dependents. The national anthem is a point of pride for our company and for the 1,100 veterans that we employ. Please feel free to share your feedback after the tone.”
The company also released a statement:
These are complex issues that require in-depth discussions and nuanced debate. What I can say is that at Anheuser-Busch we have a long heritage of supporting the institutions and values that have made America so strong. That includes our armed forces and the national anthem as well as diversity, equality, and freedom of speech. We proudly employ over 1,100 military veterans and we work every day to create an inclusive environment for all of our employees. Because only together can we achieve our dream of bringing people together for a better world.
Since the company established the hotline and began to promote it, they have been bombarded with calls. According to KTVI-TV, the hotline went down Friday afternoon after receiving too many calls, but as of Sunday afternoon, the hotline is back up.