Please avoid Chick-fil-A if it comes to Canada

Something is cooking in the kitchen. But with plenty of food options already available, it’s a questionable choice to introduce this additional option, especially considering current circumstances. 

American fast-food chain Chick-fil-A is planning to expand its locations in Canada, including a location in British Columbia by late 2027 or early 2028. With other fast-food chains such as KFC, Church’s Chicken, and Jollibee already selling fried chicken, Chick-fil-A is looking to hop into a cramped kitchen with too many cooks. 

However, considering the current circumstances going on in the world, it’s best for both the chain and Canada to scrap the plans. 

While other fast-food chains have had some recent controversies, such as Pizza Hut and Papa John’s support for Israel, Chick-fil-A has some baggage that couldn’t be more unfitting at this time. 

Back in 2012, Chick-fil-A was found to have allegedly donated millions of dollars to many Christian groups who are anti-2SLGBTQIA+. Today, this community is constantly being targeted and continuously fights for their endangered rights. If B.C. were to welcome this fast food chain, it would not only be a bad look for the province but also potentially make 2SLGBTQIA+ people feel unsupported. 

The Chick-fil-A controversies go deeper than donations. Also in 2012, then-Chick-fil-A president Dan Cathy, reportedly made public comments about being against same-sex marriage, another concern when it comes to fighting for social justice. While some countries have worked to support 2SLGBTQIA+ people, I sadly cannot say this is the case globally, especially in Donald Trump’s United States. 

Speaking of current events, considering how many areas of the U.S. currently don’t view Canada as an equal, an American company with such a controversial background makes the expansion look more concerning. Even if Chick-fil-A shows it’s been trying to change for the better, history remains and you can never be too sure if the problems are actually gone. 

As I mentioned before, it’s not like the Lower Mainland is desperate to have more fast-food places selling fried chicken. Even outside of the popular chains, there are some lesser-known joints that sell tasty fried chicken such as T&T, which is also fairly cheap from my experience. 

I also don’t think the Chick-fil-A menu is that enticing. Nothing really stands out to me as unique or makes me want to try their food as soon as possible. As a pickle hater, another chicken sandwich with pickles is disgusting and I wish this type of menu item would be phased out. 

Even the breakfast and entrée options are mostly what I’d rather order at Tim Hortons, and trust me, you don’t exactly go to Tim’s for a full meal unless you’re short on break time or have a lack of options.

While I’m always a believer in second chances and change, considering Chick-fil-A’s history and the current state of U.S. and Canadian affairs, this fast-food chain should stay on its side of the border.