Dear Reverend,
There’s a local spot that I frequent for drinks and snacks. I’ve recently become aware that the owner’s political beliefs don’t align with mine. It’s a small place, and I’ve gotten to know the staff fairly well. They’re all great people, so I’m torn. I don’t want to give the owner my business, but I don’t want the staff to suffer a loss of income. What should I do?
Put-Off Patron (woman, 55)
Dear Put-Off Patron,
Supporting businesses that align with one’s values has been in the zeitgeist lately — as evidenced by the recent economic boycotts of many larger companies. When it comes to small businesses, however, boycotting can be a stickier wicket.
Perhaps the “correct” answer is to tell you to spend your money elsewhere, but that is often easier said than done — especially if you live in a small town or people you care about depend on your patronage. It’s a very personal decision. Whichever side of the political fence you’re on, there are many things to take into consideration.
Does the owner actively participate in things that you feel harm people or believe are ethically or morally wrong? Or did they just not vote for the same person as you did? These days, it may seem nearly impossible to make that distinction, but I think it can be done. We all know someone with whom we don’t agree on politics but who isn’t a completely horrible human.
How much money do you spend at this place? If you’re there multiple times a week, dropping hundreds of dollars a month, you may want to rein it in. Instead, stop by once a week to visit your favorite server or bartender, order something small, and give them a nice tip. Heck, just order water and give them $5 if you want to. The owner won’t be seeing that money.
Speaking of the owner, have you considered having a conversation with them about why you want to take your business elsewhere? It could be done with a phone call or in person, but writing a letter or email may allow you to present your thoughts more clearly.
It’s not very likely that anything you say will change the owner’s political stance. But how they respond — or don’t — will certainly help you decide how to put your money where your mouth is.
Good luck and God bless,
The Reverend
This article appears in Mar 12-18, 2025.
