In Flemington, a deli owner’s attempt to celebrate his heritage turned into a nightmare. Jim Boggess thought he had found a great way to share his pride with the community by putting up a handwritten sign in his store window. However, the message, “CELEBRATE YOUR WHITE HERITAGE IN MARCH, WHITE HISTORY MONTH,” sparked outrage and controversy.
One customer, Bhakti Curtis, who is of mixed-race descent, was particularly offended by the sign. Curtis felt that the sign was mocking Black History Month and reported it to the Flemington Police Department. Although the police did not find the sign racist or derogatory, the damage was already done.
As the controversy surrounding the sign grew, Boggess faced severe backlash. Despite taking down the sign after four days, customers stopped coming to the deli, and his financial situation worsened. A month later, Boggess was forced to close down the deli.
In an attempt to make amends, Boggess apologized to Curtis, and the two even took a picture together. However, the harm had already been done. Boggess was left with no choice but to seek help from the public. He started a GoFundMe appeal, sharing his side of the story and asking for support.
Boggess received many letters from people across the country who supported him. However, the loss of customers and the closure of his deli marked the end of his American dream. The controversy surrounding the sign served as a reminder of the importance of being sensitive to the
