Locals React to Chick-fil-A Controversy - WSET.com - ABC13

Reporter: Carleigh Griffeth | Photographer: Levi Washburn

Lynchburg, VA- Chick-fil-A and its president have come under fire after a comment made about same-sex marriage.

The controversy started when the company donated food to a Pennsylvania organization that opposes same-sex marriage.

The chain's president, Dan Cathy, defended the move in a statement, saying he believes in the Biblical definition of marriage--between a man and a woman.

Now gay rights activist groups have vowed to boycott the chain. Even entire cities have even declared their disapproval. We wanted to get a feel for what you think about the whole thing. We spoke to several people in Lynchburg today. One man says the company's stance on marriage shouldn't come as a surprise.

"We all kind of knew that it was a very conservative, religious, right company. And when you adhere to those values of being conservative religious right then there's certain things that come with it. One of those being against same sex marriage," said Edgar Wharton, a Lynchburg College student.

We also talked to several Chick-fil-A customers and they agreed with the company's stance on marriage.

One woman says she doesn't eat at the restaurant too often, but to show her support, she's making a bigger effort to dine there.

"I know it that's why we're here. They boycotting, we supporting. See Christians can't sit in the background they've got to stand too. They're doing their stand and we're doing ours."

Another customer supports the stance as well.

"Biblically since they are a Christian organization it's the right way to go about it. It is a man and a woman."

Chicago's Mayor Rahm Emanuel says the company is not respectful of the city's neighbors, residents and family members.

Chick-fil-A released a statement saying their tradition of service is to treat every person with honor and respect, regardless of beliefs.