A grassroots petition to reinstate the star of reality show “Duck Dynasty” is close to reaching its goal of 250,000 signatures.
Faith Driven Consumer, an organization that represents Christian consumers, launched an online petition that calls on A&E network to reinstate Phil Robertson to the show.
{mosads}A&E suspended Robertson “indefinitely” from the show last week because of anti-gay and racially charged remarks he made in an interview.
“It seems like, to me, a vagina — as a man — would be more desirable than a man’s anus. That’s just me. I’m just thinking: There’s more there! She’s got more to offer. I mean, come on, dudes! You know what I’m saying? But hey, sin: It’s not logical, my man. It’s just not logical,” Robertson said in an interview published in the January issue of GQ magazine.
He also called homosexuality a sin, and said African-Americans were happier living under Jim Crow laws.
The “I Stand with Phil” petition has garnered more than 245,000 signatures and also asks A&E to formally apologize to Robertson.
“While the LGBT community may be offended by his opposing viewpoint, your rash, discriminatory, and unfair treatment toward Mr. Robertson — a recognized symbol of the faith community — is a slap in the face to Faith Driven Consumers and everyday Americans alike,” the petition says.
Twitter reportedly had blocked links to the petition’s website but restored links on Thursday, according to Faith Driven Consumer.
Republicans, including Sarah Palin, Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal and Sen. Ted Cruz (Texas), defended Robertson after his suspension was announced.