Miller responds to criticism about poster; Christians among critics

Published: 2007-10-03

SAN FRANCISCO (CNS) -- Miller Brewing Co. said it is reviewing its promotions policy after Christian groups expressed outrage over a poster for a San Francisco street fair that mimicked Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper" with a sadomasochistic theme. The company, whose logo was on the poster, said in a statement posted on its Web site Oct. 1: "We are conducting an immediate audit of our procedures for approving local marketing and sales sponsorships to ensure that this does not happen again." The company repeated an earlier statement saying that although it has supported the Folsom Street Fair for several years it objects to this year's poster and admits some people may find the image offensive. "We regret that our failure to adhere to our own policy led to an inappropriate use of our trademark and apologize to anyone who was offended as a result, particularly members of the Christian community who have contacted us to express their concern," the Milwaukee-based brewing giant said. The Folsom Street Fair is one of four annual "fetish events" in San Francisco produced by Folsom Street Events to support local charities serving the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender communities. Miller noted that the fair's marketing does not target the general public and is aimed at the "adult alternative lifestyle community."

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