The ravingly homophobic American Family Association (AFA) has called off its two-year boycott of the Ford Motor Company after claiming to have reached an agreement with the troubled carmaker.

In a statement on their web site, AFA chairman Donald Wildmon claims Ford has taken steps to reduce its "aggressive pro-homosexual policies."

The original agreement between the religious fundamentalist group and Ford supposedly contained four items:

1) Ford would not renew current promotions or create future incentives that give cash donations to homosexual organizations based on the purchase of a vehicle.
2) Ford would not make corporate donations to homosexual organizations that, as part of their activities, engage in political or social campaigns to promote civil unions or same-sex marriage.
3) Ford would stop giving cash and vehicle donations or endorsements to homosexual social activities such as 'gay'-pride parades.
4) Ford would cease all advertising on homosexual websites and through homosexual media outlets (magazines, television, radio) in the U.S. with the exception of $100,000 to be used by Volvo. The Volvo ads would be the same ads used in the general media and not aimed at the homosexual community specifically.

Wildmon said a few minor issues remain, and AFA will continue to bring these to the attention of Ford.

According to AFA, during the 24 months the boycott was in effect, Ford sales dropped an average of 8 percent per month. The organization said its boycott was not entirely responsible for the drop in sales, but played a very significant role.

Ford's Director of Product Communications, Jim Cain, denies AFA's claims.

In an email to Joe.My.God, Cain wrote:

"The AFA has made its decision and is ready to move on. Our principles have not changed. We are committed to treating everyone fairly and with respect, including our dealers, customers and employees. Ford will continue to market its products widely to attract as many customers as possible and make charitable contributions to strengthen communities to the extent business conditions allow. Difficult business conditions in recent years have reduced our overall spending across the board."

Ford has a 100% rating on the Human Rights Campaign's Corporate Diversity Index.

Last update: 03-11-2008 15:44