A bunch of years ago when I had stronger political opinions (or maybe my balls were brassier), I need to change insurance agents. I thought, why should my dollars go to an agent who's political beliefs were different than mine. That agent might even contribute to a party that I might be opposed to. I would rather my dollars go to those of similar beliefs or ideology. So I called agents in my area. I explained that I was indeed "shopping" them and basing a lot of the decision on who they would vote for (or who did they vote for, but I think it was future tense).
Remarkably, none of them would say one or another. They had a 50 50 chance of getting my business. None would take the chance. Ironically, the one who did get the biz said she didn't vote and didn't care either way. But after a few years her customer service and knowledge (or lack of) had me move on. Ya know give me a call back in 24 hours kind of thing.
On the reverse, a bunch of years ago a couple was looking at pictures of various products I was marketing in the window of my shop (the wife was French and hottie, but I digress
). I step out and offer to answer any questions they might have (yes, bang your wife on the table in the front window? Yes, sir, I can do that. You can watch too. LOL). The wife asks me do I like dogs or cats. Again 50 50 chance of getting it right. I say I have a cat at home that we got as a stray (sorry Becky. But our cat thought that she was a dog, so does that count for anything? Apologize to Ed, too.).
The wife says great, we rescue cats from various pounds in the area. I "won" the gamble. Now I am sure if they said "Oh, we like Huskies that wear tiaras," I am sure we could have continued a relationship, but I would have enjoyed the challenge of winning the dog lover over and understanding why I like cats. We had dogs and cats while I was growing up, too, so I really have no bias either way. It was my answer and standing up for it.
So Dog v Cat isn't exactly Repubs v Dems. But we can all decide what works.
Back to Avery's dilemma, I think it is okay that in her perception the Con Flag is offensive. To a younger generation, it does indeed have negative connotations. I think deciding to pass on a meeting is ok (if the financial hit isn't that bad). Even from my northern perspective I happen to agree with that PoV. Stereotyping I know, but the hate groups have indeed sullied that flag. I appreciate RK and others pride in being Southern (and gentlemen to boot). It is a shame the flag causes such mixed messages.