ATLANTA — The U.S.-based Chick-fil-A chain of quick-service restaurants is receiving widespread media attention following comments about gay marriage that were made by the company’s president, Dan Cathy.

Cathy is reported to have said his company is, “very much supportive of the family; the biblical definition of the family unit.” His opinion that anyone who believes marriage can be anything but the traditional union of a man and woman — “man bits + girl bits = 4ever” — created a storm of dissent among the American public.

Demonstrations by gay rights groups, supportive onlookers, and customers supporting civil liberties soon followed. At the height of the controversy a customer appreciation day, and subsequent “Kiss-In Days”— as dubbed by the press — turned into full-blown free speech and gay-activist demonstrations.

According to The Globe and Mail, devoted customers filled more than 1,600 already popular restaurants in 39 states. Some showed their support for the restaurant’s position on same-sex marriage; others said it was a free speech issue.

A statement has since been issued by the company. “At Chick-fil-A we appreciate all of our customers and are glad to serve them at any time,” said Steve Robinson, executive VP, Marketing. ”Our goal is simple: to provide great food, genuine hospitality and have a positive influence on all who come into contact with Chick-fil-A.”

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