Cake is once again at the center of a gender conformity argument. When Sacramento based Freeport Bakery received the request for a birthday cake featuring a Ken doll wearing an elaborate gown, they were more than happy to satisfy their customer’s request. Ken got a glam buttercream make over, the customer was pleased, and that should have been the end of it. However, when Freeport Bakery owners Walter and Marlene Goetzeler posted the image to Facebook, they realized that not all of their followers would react in a positive manner. The couple was left to wade through a number of transphobic posts, because god forbid Ken wear a dress.
After the initial post, the Goetzlers responded to the negativity with a quick follow up:
“Facebook Friends, After posting this we had a ton of people unliking our Facebook page. I deleted the rude remarks, thank goodness not too many. Our customer was thrilled.”
Why a simple cake would incite enough rage to warrant a response is baffling, but it seems like the Goetzlers and the rest of the Freeport Bakery team are taking it in stride. Following the negativity, they posted a simple thank you on Facebook, channeling the charm and class of Audrey Hepburn.
Thank you all so much for the support with Ken. “The best thing to hold onto in life is each other.” — Audrey Hepburn
Additionally, the Goetzlers released a statement saying that the kind of bigotry would not be tolerated at their establishment.
“At Freeport Bakery, we believe their is no better way to celebrate something special than with a wonderful dessert. We remain proudly committed to creating delicious and remarkable cakes that make our customers feel seen, loved, and celebrated.”
Honestly, any kind of inclusivity that celebrates the consumption of cake is truly ideal.
(Via Mashable)
