HOUSTON – A local bar owner says his staff never meant to offend people when it advertised for a "Drink like a (sic) Indian, Party like a Pilgrim" event over Thanksgiving weekend.
Brewskis Pub & Patio printed fliers and posted an ad on Facebook, an employee told Local 2, but took them down when some people told them they were offended.
"We can see how it would be viewed as offensive by some portion of the Native American population who may have seen it on the Facebook page for the bars. The intent of the flyer on Facebook was to promote a fun party and atmosphere," owner Mark R. Evans said on Tuesday.
"Brewskis' staff, ownership and customer base is comprised of members of dozens of races and religions, including Native Americans, and we will strive in the future to keep our promotional materials fun but sensitive to all members of our community," said Evans
Some Local 2 viewers wished the business hadn't created a party about Native Americans.
"I don't think it's intentionally mocking them, but they are. People need to be more sensitive to everyone. People think everything goes now days and I don't think that's right," Mary Daily said. "It is offensive to Native Americans."
Brandon Ewers recently returned from a cross country bicycle trip that changed his opinion on using ethnicities in some advertisements.
"[Native Americans] were taken advantage of and, to me, you are making the matter sound like it's a party and it's nice. Realistically it wasn't like that," Ewers said.
Dave Devine thinks people who are offended are being too sensitive.
Frances Sliney agrees, "I don't think they should be offended by every little thing that comes along. You don't have to take it personally."
What do you think? Are you offended by the advertisement? Share your view with reporter Jace Larson on his Facebook page.
The following is the full statement from Brewskies owner Mark R. Evans:
"It has come to our attention that one of the promotional flyers for our Louetta store's pre-Thanksgiving party last Wednesday was viewed as offensive by some in the Houston community, and for that we express our sincere apologies.
That flyer was not approved by the ownership or senior management, and we can see how it would be viewed as offensive by some portion of the Native American population who may have seen it on the Facebook page for the bars. The intent of the flyer on Facebook was to promote a fun party and atmosphere.
Brewskis' staff, ownership and customer base is comprised of members of dozens of races and religions, including Native Americans, and we will strive in the future to keep our promotional materials fun but sensitive to all members of our community."