A pizza franchise in Dallas, TX plans to give
(free of charge) a large peperoni pizza to anyone who places an order in
Spanish. “It can be broken Spanish. It can be first-time Spanish. But it has to
be Spanish.” The community has vigorously responded to this campaign. Some say
the idea is offensive, racist, discriminatory and biased whereas some say it's good advertising.
What’s your opinion?
You can read more on the story using the link
below.
Ken T. 49,
ReplyDeleteAs a business owner, they would all make their own choices in advertising, perhaps even to the point of possible publicity (positive or negative). I can, however, only imagine the measure of publicity if it were Arabic instead of Spanish. This could be simply a recognition of Spanish becoming just as prominent as English within the United States.
Lizzy A.44 in response to Ken T.49
DeleteYes,advertisement can never be over emphasized,it is always a soul of business.The choice of bilingual usage is quiet an advantage in business.I think the choice of using any language for a business growth often depend on the business/marketing target and that is what has been made use of.
Jalaacya M.43 in response to Ken T.49
DeleteYes, i totally agree on your post. If were another race i wonder if anyone would say anything then. People have so much to say about everything and I know everyone is entitled to their own opinion. If you don't eat there then i honestly think it shouldn't bother you.
Christy A 40 I really do not see an issue with this marketing ploy which only reason for existence is to cause increased exposure to a lesser chain of pizza parlors. With this advertising campaign the company will become more famous due to the increased publicity, as they say all publicity is good publicity.
ReplyDeleteShana-kay C in response to Christy A
DeleteThis advertisement is bringing more business and recognition to a small pizza shop. Not everyone will agree with what the owner is trying to do. Either way it goes people more people who never heard of this pizza store may by pizza from there.
I really do believe that is an excellent idea for our population to learn spanish, however, i can see where it might come off as a little racist, but it is a way for us all to be bylingual. It's great way of advertisment, I suppose.
ReplyDeleteQuadarius H 44
ReplyDeleteI think this a great idea, being that America is changing each and every day the Hispanic population has doubled over the last 10 years. Spanish has become like a second language here, so this advertisement will challenge people to go outside the box and learn something new and in the end you are kind of rewarded for it.
paul w. 44 in response to Quadarius H. 44 I agree with you on everything that you have said, but at the end of the day it's about morals, and this is offensive to Hispanics. If you are an African American put yourself in their shoes, but with something black people like. That could offend you also, and regardless of what reward it is, we as a country should embrace each race, not mock one another.
DeleteFrances M 847 in response to Paul W 44 I agree with both you and Quadarius H 44 are because myself growing up in an African household in the American culture there were some things I took offensive ie. If someone made a small joke about having elephants and/or tigers outside my house. I took offense to that. But at the same time I can also see that the American culture wants to grasp as much knowledge about other cultures but at the same time need to focus on their own and leave other cultures where they belong. Because if you haven't been in those shoes you really can't see anything wrong with it.
DeleteMia A. 44 in response to Paul w. 44
DeleteI don't think that this is offensive to the Spanish speaking community. The promotion is not portraying stereotypes or making fun but using their language. When you greet someone of a different culture in their native language, it's like an ice breaker. And an initial bond is formed automatically. So I think this pizza restaurant will attract many Spanish speaking population and hopefully, the non Spanish speaking population as well.
Paul W. 44 The idea is a great marketing weapon to draw attention, but with that attention there will be people who agree and disagree. Even in the article there were soft spoken companies who support the Latin community, but disagree with such a racial based promotion. My personal opinion on this matter is tough to figure out. I'm an African American, and if KFC (Kentucky fried chicken) had a "test" advertisement stating that "if you sing, a rap song you get free chicken" that would somewhat be offensive to black people, so in conclusion I find it to be a little wrong.
ReplyDeleteGbenga A. 43 in response to Paul W. 44.
DeleteI agree with your latter position regarding this argument. If this whole idea is about promoting Speaking Spanish language, my question is how much of Spanish can one learn if all you have to say to get a free pizza is 'por favor'? A lot of people will end up getting confused in the long run if another restaurant, say Italian, asks the general public to order a food item in their native language. Then the whole purpose of trying to learn a new language would have been eventually defeated.
Kitrina B. 49
ReplyDeleteI believe that it really doesn't hurt anyone by advertising a Spanish offer. After all we have holidays in the U.S that do the same thing like Cinco De Mayo, Yom Kippur... It's only for one day for a few hours it's no big deal/
In response to the Pizza place I think it is a good idea on one hand. It could be viewed as dicriminatory on ther other. For those of us who can read and speak english fluently, I think it is a chance for us to step outside the box. I think anyone who speaks english who really love pizza should step up to the challenge and get the kids envolved. It's as an opportunity for the owner(s) to drum up business/controversy for the sake of drumming up business. Either way it goes, I think it is an ecxellent idea because in the end the business owner is getting recognition for his business and people will come.
ReplyDeleteQuatis S online 43
ReplyDeleteResponse May 29, 2012 at 5:43 pm left out name and course #
In response to the Pizza place I think it is a good idea on one hand. It could be viewed as dicriminatory on ther other. For those of us who can read and speak english fluently, I think it is a chance for us to step outside the box. I think anyone who speaks english who really love pizza should step up to the challenge and get the kids envolved. It's as an opportunity for the owner(s) to drum up business/controversy for the sake of drumming up business. Either way it goes, I think it is an ecxellent idea because in the end the business owner is getting recognition for his business and people will come.
ReplyDelete
Tokunbo N 44
ReplyDeleteI personally dont see anything wrong with asking people to order pizza in spanish to win a box of pizza.on the contrary i see it more like an opportunity to learn a new language. The world is fast becoming a global village.people tend to blow things out of context.ordering pizza in spanish has nothing to do with discrimination, it is promoting the language.
Mark W 49
ReplyDeleteYou had me at Free Pizza. I have no problem with that. Pretty smart marketing, if you ask me. Just don't ever ask me to order burritos in Italian.
Elizabeth M 44
DeleteThis makes me laugh. Thanks Mark W 49! If more people were this lighthearted and didn't take things so seriously than there would be no article about a town outraged by a bit of marketing. There would just be a town full of people eating free pizza.
Frances M 847
ReplyDeleteIn response to the blog on the Pizza Parlor offering free pizza to those who speak Spanish I think is ridiculous. First of all its insulting because isn't pizza an Italian dish.....not a Spanish dish. So why would you offer a deal like this. I'm an African-American with African parents, its like my parents owning an African cuisine restaurant and offering free food to those that spoke German. This is unrealistic and quite insulting to the Spanish culture.
Sopheak 49
ReplyDeleteI want a free pizza.
Erelin R-44 in response to Sopheak 49
DeleteI thought the same thing when I read this article. Free Pizza is always good even if its $4.99.
Lizzy A.44
ReplyDeleteBusiness owners always look for ways to promote the business, advertisement is one of the major ways. considering the population of the Spanish in the country, the advertisement is a way of making a good marketing and boom the business. Being bilingual is what everybody should consider a good option. I do not see the advertisement as discriminating just a way of promoting business.
Jake C.55
ReplyDeleteI don't see what the big stink is about. America is one of the few western civilizations that's not bilingual, I'm not sure what is so hard about learning one sentence of spanish for a free pizza. No one is being "punished" here. However, when considering all the accomdations that have been made by non-spanish speaking citizens("press one for English") for the hispanic population, I can see how this would come across as a small spit in the face.
Maile F. 44
ReplyDeleteOk...so I am kind of on the fence with this one. I think it is a clever marketing scheme however, it is somewhat offensive to me as well. I know that America is considered the "melting pot" but I feel that if you live here you should speak the native lanuage...ENGLISH...seems to me the pizza place is cornering the market that they feel they can expand in and from a business perspective I could agree...However, I still feel no matter what country you live in or visit you should be respectful enough to speak thier respective languages.
Jordan P. 43 in response to Maile F. 44
DeleteI feel the exact same way that you do about this and I think you made a very good point. If you were to go to another country, you would be expected to speak the same language they do. I think it should be the same way here.
Mia A. 44 in response to Mailed F. 44
DeleteWhen I have traveled to other countries, Americans tend to draw themselves to English speaking people, mostly. I have friends who have been living in other countries for several years and they can only speak 5 percent of the language. They live in "American or English speaking" communities OR there are good number of the native people who can speak English. I do agree with you to a certain degree where English should be a primary language in the u.s. and immigrants should learn how to speak English. But I always keep in mind that it's very difficult to learn a whole new culture and language especially when a person immigrated to the u.s. as an adult, even from Western Europe.
Jessica F. 44
ReplyDeleteThis is a good marketing poly for the business and they are allowing the majority of people who call even with even terrible translation to still get a free pizza. Unfortunately we live in a world that it does not matter if you tried to be political correct somebody is going to be offended with something you say or do. For this business 70% of the customer base is Spanish speaking clients. To be honest please do you think that the 70% of the client that speak Spanish that the pizza place serves is going to boycott the marketing ploy for free food. Are you offended every time when you go through the options when calling larger companies that they ask you to press two for Spanish, but they do not give the option to select one for English to avoid the drowning of the compute directory?
Kayla F. 49
ReplyDeleteI think that this pizzeria is completely in the right.There are many other holidays that celebrate different cultures.If certain other cultures can publicize their culture, why can't this pizza place? The owner stated that 70% of their customers are Spanish-speaking.I am of Hispanic decent, but speak very little Spanish.I take absolutely no offense to this marketing tactic.Business is a tough job,and people do whatever they have to these days.If I were to go into this place and try and talk Spanish, I would like the benefit of a free pizza.
Jordan P. 43
ReplyDeleteI think this is a good way to get business for your company, but I think there are other ways to do it. I have absolutely nothing against people who speak Spanish, but this is America, and the official language is English. I don't think they should exclude people who don't speak Spanish from participating in this deal. However, with the technology these days, you could always look up on the Internet how to order a pizza in Spanish, so it could go either way.
Leslie B. 40
ReplyDeleteAs a business owner, and an American, I do take offense to the press 1 for English, or worse yet, press 1 for Spanish. As a number of people have pointed out, if we were to travel to another country, we would be expected to speak, or at least try to speak, the language. We are talking about Texas. A large percentage of people speak Spanish, so it's not like they are learning anything new. It appears they are pandering to the Hispanic population. Honestly, if that is their target market, then they are doing a good job. I have Rosetta Stone to learn Spanish, so I am not against learning a new language, but English is our primary language and if they want people to try a new language, how bout they say a free pizza for those who order in English! Have a great day!!
Carmen G. 87 Online
ReplyDeleteI really do not see huge controversy that is related to this story. This is clearly just another busness that is using a clever marketing ploy to advertise to their targeted market and I think that consumers are taking it that wrong way. The majority of the surrounding population is clearly Hispanic and the store is making an attempt at a gimmick to try and lure in customers. I do not think that this is racist in any way.
Carmen G. 87 Online in Response to Jordan P. 43
ReplyDelete(Sorry the reply button doesn't work for me)
I am in agreeance with you concerning that it is a clever marketing ploy; however,I have to disagree with the point that this is America and the official language is English and that should be the only language spoken here. America was built by immigrants who came here by choice to have a better life from Eastern Europe or by force from Africa. In more modern times many individuals from South America and Asia have joined the melting pot. Although they have labeled English the official language times are changing and different cultures are becoming dominant is some areas.
Tokunbo N 44 in response to Frances M 847
ReplyDeleteI dont think there is anything ridiculus about ordering pizza in spanish.its more like a great creative idea.The more language you speak,the better for you in the job market.the world is a global village.
Jalaacya M.43 online
ReplyDeleteI doubt a lot of those people who have a strong opinion about the advertising that this pizza place does even eats there. I don't see anything wrong with it. What harm is it really doing? People get upset over the most irrelevant things sometimes.
Erelin R-44
ReplyDeleteI dont see the contreversy here! The company is trying to drum up some pizza to sell. It would be the same as if Little Cesar were advertising if we said Pizza Pizza in our best Italian accent. Being in a country where there are many languages and dilicts its always good to see a company understanding its consumers and surronding neighbors.
Chandis C. forgot CRN#
ReplyDeleteI really don't think the idea is offensive in any nature. I think it's a great idea for people to seek opportunities in creating a order in spanish. Many people can't speak spanish because it is a very difficult language. So time is being put into something that is being rewarded.
So Hey! I would definately do it. I Love Pizza but I can't speak a lick of Spanish!
Corey M. 44
ReplyDeleteI believe this is great advertisement. I dont see how people find this idea offensive. They better just go on google translator and find out how to say it and get that free pizza.
People are so judgmental. I do not see anything wrong with this idea. People advertise in different ways. It is not like they are saying that you have to be fluent in Spanish.
ReplyDeleteKiara T. 44 Online
ReplyDeleteI think this is a GREAT idea. I'm not understanding the problem. It's just a promotion to bring in more Latin customers. It's no different than offering a free pizza for bringing in a coupon in English. Well what about the LAtin customers that don't read English. Is it still discrimination then? Is it only discrimination when it can negatively impacts a "American?"
Kiara T. 44 Online
ReplyDeletein response to Frances M. 847
So just because it's a Pizza Place and pizza is Italian they're wrong for wanting to encourage some Latin business? That claim is ridiculous. You can't fault the business it's their business they can adverstise to whomever they please. For all you know they could have just opened up in a Latin community. Also, how many food places do you know are run by actual people from the country the food has orginated from? I buy the best wings from some Asians but they're menu is in English is that ridiculous too?
Jimella B.43
ReplyDeleteThis is just ridiculous. Fist off, it's not like you have to already know Spanish to get a free pizza or speak it fluently the article states it can be first time Spanish or broken Spanish. Would it really kill you to learn a couple of words in Spanish? If they did this in my town I would be excite. Its not everyday they have promotions involving a culture lesson. People in American are so bend on calling something wrong or racist. If you allow Spanish speaking people into American then you should in-brace their language. Everyday Spanish speakers have to learn a little English just to survive here, so why can't we be open to learn so of their language maybe a pizza place in Miami,Florida should also try something like this after all the Spanish language is becoming very dominant there.
JimellaB34 in response to Kiara T. 44 I don't see the discrimination in this story either. It really baffles me how people can't be open to something that does not harm them. I wonder what would happen if a high school Spanish teacher decided her students could only speak Spanish in her class to help them better learn the language. Is that discrimination too?
DeleteDana Y43 in response to Jimella B43 I totally agree with not seeing the discrimination in what they are doing. People need to see the bigger picture and that is they are trying to expand and promote their business. There is no harm in what they are doing people are just caught up with thinking everything is discrimination if it doesn't suit them.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteDana Y 43
ReplyDeleteI think its a good idea. They aren't saying that you have to speak fluent Spanish. Being that its a Spanish speaking pizza restaurant i think it would be good to go and order your food in Spanish rather it be broken or not. People are so quick to yell racist or discrimination when things don't suit them. We expect Hispanics to speak English broken or not why can't they do something to help their business out
AnissaG43
ReplyDeleteI don't see what the big deal is and the more you talk about it you are helping promote what some people think is ridiculous. The pizza probably don't taste that good and would you go to a chinese restaurant for pizza? No because its not going to taste like real pizza so this company is trying to get more of Latinos to want to eat there pizza. Me personally I would never buy pizza from a restaurant like that.
AnissaG43 Online in response to FrancesM847
ReplyDeleteI disagree with the ridiculous part because in realty I think they are trying to get more hispanics to sample there pizza but I agree with you about going to a hispanic resturant for pizza I would never go to a greek restuarant and order a burrito.
Bernadette M 43 online
ReplyDeleteThis is a marketing idea that stirs up a controversy that may just back fire on the advertisers. Some people will be angered by what they feel is a un- America policy and others will feel racially insulted. I think it is a no win form of advertising. It will bring in people for the free pizza but may stir up problems they do not want. I think a much better way to get customers, would be what I did for my pizza shop years ago, which was buy a large get a small cheese free. It increased my business tenfold and did not insult or incite anyone. Many people in our country are looking for things to find insulting or controversial. We have to look beyond all this nonsense and find the good in the people around us.
Bernadette M43 online in answer to Jimella B.43
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that so many people are looking for problems in places where there are not any. We have become a society of instigators and litigants.
We are not happy unless we are complaining or suing someone.
Kristel B 43 Online in response to Bernadette M 43 online
DeleteYou have hit the nail right on the head by your incredible point. "We have become a society of instigators and litigants. " You are absolutely right and from there, it cascades down into a serious of other issues. What happened to being supportive and understanding? How has America gone from working together to build a great nation, to becoming "all about me?" It's really quite a shame.
In Response to Kristel B 43
DeleteYes, we are a very hostile nation, we try to find issues and problems were every we are.
However, I dont think this is that case. I think if it was to happen any other way, where the media didnt get involved or possible leaned the other way, stating "a pizza franchise in Dallas, TX gave away free pizza's to everyone who ordered in Spanish. There was a huge turn out." I believe this is a media exploit, trying to make a story by skewing, or possible only focus on the negatives of the situation.
I highly doubt their original intentions were to offend or discriminate the community. I quote Lisa Navarrete, spokeswoman for the advocacy group National Council of La Raza; ""For people to get offended or upset at this seems a little bit silly. It doesn't preclude anybody. Anyone can say, 'por favor.' "
I also quote Gamm from Pizza Patron head quarters, “But between 60 and 70 percent of our customer are Hispanic,” he said, “and we have no hesitation, no apologies.”
They have no need to try and gear their sales towards hispanic crowd, it sounds more like they advertised off their logo and name.
Whats really the issue about getting free pizza.
Now if they advertised, "Hispanics get free pizza Today!" that would be a little discriminating and pretty stupid of them to do that.
I feel like America has become overly sensitive and honestly greedy. Greedy in sense, that everyone is looking and waiting for the opportunity to sue someone or be made the victim. I hope that one day everyone learns from their own ignorance.
Bernadette M43 online to melodime
ReplyDeleteThere is nothing wrong with them doing this but there is also nothing great about it either. If they were smart they would do an activity that would bring the community together instead of causing bad feeling from one side or another. There are endless ideas of much more value than this one.
I do not think that anyone should be offended by this gesture. It is not hard to find anything today since we have internet access. What that means is that to get a free pizza, all someone has to do is ask how to order a pizza in Spanish, on the internet. It is really that simple.
ReplyDeleteFirst, I'm glad people are standing by me on this decision, because I did the mini-poll thing and the Highest Agreement was 36%, but a marketing franchise has the right to market however they want to. See, especially noticing that this is a Hispanic restaurant, and you get an awesome deal for ordering your Pizza in Spanish? Okay... are these arguments SERIOUS?? Order the dang pizza in Spanish, ask the Hispanic guy next to you for the answer and you'll BOTH walk out with a Free Large Pizza. I really don't even the slightest see the problem with this. I'm especially surprised that people felt it was inappropriate. Let's not exclude the thing about accepting Mexican Pesos. IT'S A MEXICAN RESTAURANT... that serves pizza... but IT'S STILL MEXICAN! Now this in NO WAY, means YOU... can't use your DOLLAR in an American Located Pizzeria, it just means that people NEAR who have pesos, don't have to let the good dollar go to waste. It's not like EVERYBODY is doing it, this store has REASONABLE CAUSE... what's the big idea, people?
ReplyDeleteElizabeth M 44
ReplyDeleteI don't understand why people are making such a big deal out of this. This is a Mexican themed pizza restaurant. I think that if you are going to get mad at this promotion than you have to be mad that the restaurant is Mexican themed to begin with or that the logo is a Mexican man with a mustache. I do not think that this has anything to do with immigration issues nor do I think it is discrimination. ANYONE is welcome to participate. If you don't know Spanish, look up on the internet or ask a friend how to say "I'd like a large pepperoni".
Tokunbo N44 in response to Jalaacya M.43 i totally agree with you.people tend to miss the point and place so much emphasis on things that are not important.They leave the things they n eed to focus on.that is the reason people liker Kim Kardanshain become celebrities for doing the wrong things.
ReplyDeleteKatarzyna C. 33 online
ReplyDeleteI think that this is a great marketing idea. Spanish is quickly becoming the second language in the United States. The article even states that the Hispanic population almost doubled in the U.S. in the past 10 years. If this is the case, then there is no need for people to get offended by this restaurant’s advertising campaign. In addition, the article stated that the Hispanics are the target market for this restaurant and that 70% of its customers speak Spanish. Also in 2007 the same restaurant did a promo and started accepting Mexican pesos as a form of payment. I think what this article is stating is that the times and culture of the U.S. are changing. With so much Hispanic influence on the American culture, there is no need for people to get offended by a Spanish advertising idea.
Katarzyna C 33 online in response to Elizabeth M 44
ReplyDeleteI like your last statement. I think that if someone wants a free pepperoni pizza bad enough, and they don’t speak Spanish, they should look it up on the internet instead of wondering if they should be offended by the advertising. Also like you mentioned, this is for everyone to participate in.
Kristel B. 43 Online
ReplyDeleteAlthough I can see both sides to the argument, I find it a bit ridiculous that people are taking offense to either side. This is America, we are a land of diverse cultures and creative ideas. Koodos to the management at the restaurant for coming up with such a brilliant idea for advertising. Family restaurants aren't as easy to advertise for like some other things. Its not like the can post a picture of a half naked girl claiming their product is the best. As far as I know, Hooters is the only one who has been incredibly successful with that and lets face it, they aren't making headlines either. I think the way the restaurant handled this idea is fantastic. I'm positive the management didn't spend one evening thinking, "how can we offend half of society today?" Rather, they embraced an idea and put it into motion. I think that is commendable. My two year old nephew can say "por favor y gracious." So not only was the restaurant looking for an easy means for the public to participate with, they were also trying to play upon their theme. Who is to deny their creativity. Common America, stop picking apart little issues and focus on bigger ones- like the starving populations or the rise of AIDS. Seriously, dont miss the forrest for the trees.
Michaelia B. 43 in response to Kristel B.
DeleteI agree with your entire post. How smart can they be to give away free pizza knowing that people will be back. I also think it is a great idea. I am online everyday and I am also curious as to why the Kardashians and the world's largest mothballs makes headlines compared to the REAL issues of our world.
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteMichaelia B. 43
ReplyDeleteWith marketing being my career background, I think this is a great idea, especially when the target area is 70% Latino. I honestly do not see how this can upset people. I mean how easy is it to Google translated words? It is the same as the Popeye's commercials in my state who uses a black, southern talking woman in its to promote its product; probably because its target it southern people who love fried chicken. As for accepting Mexican Pesos, they are in Texas who is neighbors with Mexico. I also think that as far as marketing goes, sampling is a great idea. If you are trying to prove yourself, in the food industry especially, sampling is the best way to do it aside from word of mouth. If the pizza is any good, Pizza Patron should expect plenty of hungry customers after the event ends. Also if they give away one pizza someone is bound to buy another so they should really be making money that day.
Eric D.44 in response to Michaelia B.
DeleteI fully agree with what you're saying about sampling. When I go to the mall and a woman of Japenese/Chinese origin hands me a piece of meat that might be chicken or pork, or maybe even kitten, I eat it without thinking and then I want more. Pizza being my favorite food in the world, having someone tell me that I can get a free one by simply ordering in Spanish; count me in!
Shana-kay C. Online
ReplyDeleteI feel that doing that type of advertisement is good, it makes people to learn something new and to speak a little spanish. Which makes people think and learn how to order what they want in another language. With any business advertisement will be some contreversy no matter what, not everyone will agree with the owners tactics to attract business. Either way the store is getting major recognition which attracts more business for them.
Eric D. 44
ReplyDeleteI, personally, endorse any form of advertisement/promotion that allows a company to give away something free without labeling it as "free." I work for a company that has an entire kitchen full of spanish-speaking immigrants and not only have I picked up on the language as to better understand my co-workers, but I've also gained sort of an attribute for many other situations. If the pizza company were giving away pies only if someone could order it in correct English, then nobody could ever figure it out. That is, English referring to England and not of the Americas. It's a basic market scheme not targeted to be biased towards anyone. I know Japanese restaurants that give cost discount to anyone of Oriental nativity. They're helping the community and themselves in an equal share gain.
Karen S.49.
ReplyDeleteI think that it's there business and this is a free country and they should be allowed to do what they want to do when it comes to advertisment. They have made it clear that most of their customers are hispanic there for their not in fear of loosing customers. However, I do believe if they are going to be living in the United States that should be able to speak our language. When ever you go to place an order it is an option to press 1 for english or 2 for spanish if it was harder to get things done if they did not know english it would make them more eager to learn our language and I only say this because when you visit other countries we have to know their language. I guess it's a way to respect other cultures and their language.
Christsandra G. 44
ReplyDeleteI don't think that it is racist at all I feel that it is a good idea especially if you want to learn spanish. I mean when spanish people go to mc donalds they half to order in english.I think it is a fun way to teach spanish.
Leslie B 40
ReplyDeleteA better idea would be to get everyone to order in Italian if this were truly about learning a new language. Few speak Italian in the U.S.. If this were truly a marketing ploy and not pandering, I feel that would be more appropriate for a pizza restaurant.
Happy Saturday!
Just read a little farther up and it is stated that this is actually a Mexican restaurant. If that is the case, then, by all means, ask people to order in Spanish. That actually changes my position, because it makes sense. As others have pointed out, this is a free country, and people and advertise as they wish. If it weren't a Mexican restaurant though, I still would not be in favor.
DeleteShayla H.
ReplyDeletePersonally I wonder if it were, say an Italian restaurant running the same marketing promo would there be such a fuss. Either way, I would google a translation if I didn't already know the language of choice and enjoy a free pizza. I don't see this as a big deal to be honest.
Christy A in response to Shayla H I thought the same thing about google and by the ad stating that it could be broken spanish it gives anyone a chance to get a free pizza and encourage people to learn a little as well
DeleteTracey E.
ReplyDeleteI personally don't consider it a racial issue but I don't think it's the best marketing idea either. Doing something as drastic as that can cause problems and eventually hurt the business. There are other ways of promoting you company but this is not one of them.
christy a 40 in response to Paul W. 44 I would feel the same way as you if pizza was a spanish food but it is Italian so I dont see the sterotype here.. I think the fact that it could be broken spanish made it even fairer in that anyone could hop on google and figure out how to order a free pizza in a matter of minutes
ReplyDeleteTammy B.44 I agree with this that if you need to order food then you could be able to do it in other languages. I wondered why it was only focused on spanish and not other languages. Seems like they are focusing on that because its all about voting right now.
DeleteGbenga A. 43
ReplyDeleteIn my own opinion, discrimination has been a long standing issue in the United States and anything that would promote it should be discouraged. The manager of the restaurant even affirms his position by saying "70% of its customer base is Spanish-speaking. It makes perfect sense for us, Gamm says. We're trying to make our bond with the Hispanic community stronger." This is a strong point that automatically tells a Non-Hispanic that you are most likely not welcome in a restaurant like Pizza Patron. An advertisement of this form will offend anyone who doesn't speak Spanish, as he/she already knows that free pizza doesn't apply.
Mia A. 44
ReplyDeleteI do not think that ordering pizza in Spanish in this restaurant is a form of discrimination.
Anyone of any background, color, religion, ect. can go into the restaurant and order - it
just has to be in Spanish. I think it's a great way to teach yourself or your children a little
about another culture and have fun at the same time. I give credit to the marketer for
coming up with this great idea for 70 percent of their customers are Spanish speaking.
The article says that it can be broken Spanish and doesn't have to be perfect or do you
HAVE to be a native Spanish speaking person.
Tammy B.44
ReplyDeleteI have mixed feelings about this issue,I feel that we are becoming a more diverse country. On one hand I feel that we all need to speak different languages but on the other hand I think that if you dont speak a certain language you should not be able to get a free pizza. I am seeking my degree in education and I feel that I do need to learn different languages so that I can teach any of my students properly. I do not think that this should be pushed on an individual if they are not acceptable to it.
Vann H. 88 in response to Tammy B. 44
DeleteVery true. But first of all for people complaining, there are a million other pizza companies in Texas. haha, and second of all, how long would it take to learn how to say "one large pepperoni pizza" in spanish? People forget how handy google translate is.
Annsley B. 75
ReplyDeleteI think that it is a terrible way to advertise. I'm not saying it wouldn't hurt to look up how to order a pizza in spanish and teach your kids something new and fun but I think that it is a little rediculous. We are not forced to learn Spanish in America. I mean this is America and we as Americans are giving in too much to the hispanic culture. I know for a fact if we were to go and live in Mexico they would not help us out and learn English just to tend to us. Why are we in America just so they can keep their culture alive in our country?
Marci K. 09 in response to Annsley B. 75
DeleteI agree as American's we should not have to learn another language just to live in our country, however, this country was founded by immigrants, and their culture. I don't believe ordering a pizza in Spanish is catering to the Hispanic culture, you are confusing business with government. The national language of America is English, and that should never change, however, it would not hurt American's to get out of their comfort zone, and learn another language. The rest of the civilized world knows at least two languages in addition to their native tongue, why can't we?
Annsley B. 75 in reponse to Tammy B. 44
ReplyDeleteI agree, if you don't speak a certain language you shouldn't be able to get a free pizza. I understand it said will accept broken spanish but still its the point, it's kinda wrong. I agree as well in a classroom you should not have to feel that you need to learn another language just to teach a specific child and should not be pushed on individuals. In America today a lot of us almost feel like we should be learning Spanish but I think that we def should not.
Vann H. 88
ReplyDeleteI think it's a joke that the United states preaches about how free we are. There are absolutely worse places in the world but how can we believe we are the greatest country in the world when we deny the rights of foreigners to speak their first language. The U.S. is supposed to be a country of diversity. I agree english should be the dominating language here, but if 1 in every 6 americans is Latino it might be time to become more diverse ourselves and learn the ability to communicate in spanish as well as english for when we do need it. Im just a strong believer in true freedom and not the united states version of "freedom".
KathrynC.43 I think that this is a clever way to market to the non Latin American community. If you were asked to speak a phrase in a different language for money, would you? I would and many people that I know would also. I see nothing wrong with the idea of trying to lure in more of the community. I have no problem learning something new, even if it is a language. I do not feel the least bit uncomfortable ordering a food in a different language, even if it is here in America. I think that the company is also trying to reach out to the other consumers and draw them into their establishment to eat.
ReplyDeleteKathrynC.43 in response to KristelB43. I agree with you about missing the forrest for the trees! If this is the only thing that Americans can focus on then we are in pretty bad shape. As a country, we do need to address poverty in our own country, AIDS, and the growing number of unemployed adults, and homelessness. Stop worrying about the little things, and solve some of the major problems today, and the little problems will solve themselves!
ReplyDeleteChristsandra G. 44 in response to Kristel B. 44 I agree with Kristel there are more problems in this world besides asking someone to speak spanish for a free pizza.
DeleteMichelle G44 To me i feel its just advetising for business. They advertise for free with a catch 22 which getting people who dont speak Spanish to learn a short sentence wich can also spark an interst for further themselves to speak spanish
ReplyDeleteMarci K. 09
ReplyDeleteI think this was actually a very smart marketing strategy. It forces those who want to take advantage of the special to actually have to learn something if they don't already know the language. However, I will say that it has been quite interesting to see how many people actually label this as "discrimination" because they either can't speak spanish or they don't want to have to learn a few words in order to capitalize on the special being offered. In all actuality this marketing strategy is no different than offering discounts to teachers, students, military or senior citizens.
Daniel D. 43 in responses to Marci K. 09
DeleteThat's exactly the attitude this article is channeling. Maybe next time I go to my local Walmart I should claim I'm a victim of Ageism because they won't give me a senior discount. I wonder if USA Today would publish an article about that?
This is so utterly trivial it's embarrassing.
Victoria S. 43 in response to Marci K. 09
DeleteExactly how I feel! How someone could find this "discriminating" I'm not sure? I don't believe that this marketing strategy was designed to offend anyone, but only to have fun and give out free pizzzzzzza!
Daniel D. 43
ReplyDeleteThe funny part of this article (and the poll on the site) is how it's implied that getting a free pizza by being able to do something that most people learned in their high school Spanish class is somehow trivializing English as the official language of the U.S. I guess what these people must not realize is that the U.S. doesn't actually have an "official" language. The majority of this article is simply people blowing steam for nothing. I've been to Texas and I can tell you (as most others probably could) that there is a huge Hispanic presence there. The fact remains that this is a pizzeria that makes its money in what seems to be a Latin community in Dallas, not a national movement to adopt the peso as official currency. People like to have their opinions heard, so they often lash out at anything that it remotely controversial, even if it's entirely unwarranted as the case of overreactions demonstrate here. It even says "broken Spanish" is accepted, that alone should put to rest any issue of discrimination. Although, I'm sure this pizzeria is loving the attention they're getting, any publicity is good publicity as they say. This probably did more for their business than this little promotion would have done anyway.
And anyway, if they honestly think this is discrimination and they really just wanted a free pizza then maybe they should educate themselves a little better and learn to say "uno pepperoni pizza por favor" like 90% of American probably already can.
JeffM-34. As a small business owner, i feel that any business should be allowed to advertise in any way they choose (keeping in mind obsenity laws, etc.) and let their customers show support for or against said company. If you offend enough customers long enough, you can find an alterantive source of income!
ReplyDeleteJeffM-34 As a small business owner, i believe that any business should be free to advertise in any manner they choose (keeping in mind obsenity laws, etc) and let teh customers support or not the business. If one offend enough customers for long enough, then one can find an alternative income source!
ReplyDeleteVictoria S. 43
ReplyDeleteI believe that every business has the right to advertise in any way they please. Personally, I think it's a really fun and neat idea. I would order the pizza in Spanish? If someone doesn't like the idea then they just don't need to order the pizza.
Christy W online 43
ReplyDeleteI am sure the pizza resturaunt had no intention of offending anyone. And it'salways nice to say "thank you", no matter what language. Pizza originated in Italy. Should italians be offended that they were not asked to speak italian? This advertising worked better than they had probably planned; "lots of publicity", has been given. I'm sticking to the theory that in general people are afraid of what they don't know and change.
Danielle D. 49 Business' should be able to advertise anyway they want, its their money, product and potential consumers that they are at risk for loosing. However I do believe that English should be the primary spoken language of the U.S. so ordering a pizza in Spanish is not something I would do....free or not.
ReplyDeleteCandace Brown 49
ReplyDeleteI think that the pizza palce should not do this campaighn for people that don't speak spanish its infair. We are in America and our native language is english. Campaign or not it is not fair for those who do not speak spanish and may be insulting to those who speak spanish fluently.
Bernadette M43 to all
ReplyDeleteI would love to be there just to listen to some of the people making the orders. I know if I tried to order in Spanish it would be greek to everyone around. Too bad this even has to be a discussion, so many take life just too seriously. This should be a fun experence, but I know someone will try to make an issue of it.
I think this is a great idea. Help expand horizons, although I dont think Texas needs any help learning Spanish. Its a good way to reach out to the community. Those who found it offensive are truly ignorant. Offensive, to me, means someone did something intentional and directly to offend a specified group or individual. Does giving away free pizza really sound offensive? Ignorant I say to those who say yes. If you speak Spanish, you just got a free pizza!!! Explain the down side of this situation?....
ReplyDeleteMeredith N.44
ReplyDeleteMany businesses are struggling to survive in this economy. The pizza parlor has created a way to bring in business. We have a choice wheteher or not to buy pizza there. We do not have to participate in the marketing idea. People who are willing to speak the Spanish will get a good deal. It's almost like my mom using a coupon.
Meredith N.44 in response to Katarzyna C. 33
ReplyDeleteYou state excellent facts in your response. Cities and towns throughout the United States have Spanish speaking people living there. The pizza parlor has used this marketing idea to their advantage. Growing businesses need to survive in this economy.
Samantha B: I am not sure what the big deal is about this. It’s just a marketing scheme. You better believe that I would be searching Google to figure out how to order me a pepperoni pizza!
ReplyDeleteSabrina Page(online student)
ReplyDeleteI am not a racist person so i would not be offended by such a matter. If i were one of the customers, i would try to speak in spanish just for a free pizza. My 2 years of spanish in high school would now serve a purpous. There have been a lot of spanish people moving in, and many have business's. They need the support in order to survive. We shouldn't take it as rascism, but a way of living.
Tom Online- 44
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Christy W online 43
ReplyDeleteIn response to Marci K 09
http://www.cpin.us/p/pel/bilingualism.htm
Please read this article concerning the advantages for children who learn a second language. This is only one of many articles, regarding the advantage of being bilingual. If someone in your neighborhood, area started a icecream shop; and the owner happened to be deaf. If a sign were on the door to educate you, how to order icecream in sign language; would you refuse to do so, for a free icecream.
www.signsavy.com
Language is based on our social location in life, at the time of learning and ability to communicate. We should all continue our learning, hopefully we will travel to other countries and be able to communicate.
i do not think this is racist. If people have to order in spanish, that helps the people who dont know spanish, want to learn. This opens us up to other cultures by exposing us to the language. It is also a very wise marketing strategy. If someone knows, or wants to learn spanish, then they recieve a free pizza. that's a great way to market your product.
ReplyDeleteYou are right about that. I don't see why people have a problem with that when they go to Taco Bell and try to order.
DeleteArveolla M. 43
ReplyDeleteHonestly, I do not think that that is racist at all. It actually is a great way to open up our minds to the fact that there are other cultures out there. We go to Taco Bell and try to speak a little Spanish there, so why not actually go into a true Spanish speaking restaurant and learn a little.