There was a little more than the usual delicious Southern fare happening at the restaurant Table fifty-two on March 22.
In response to the statements about same-sex families that fashion designers Dolce & Gabbana made, Chef Art Smith held a fundraiser. Smith donated and matched all restaurant sales from brunch that day to support the pro-LGBT organization the Family Equality Council. Smith told Windy City Times that a $5,000 check would go to the group.
As for the message behind the March 22 event, Smith held up his phone, which showed a photo of Smith, husband Jesus Salgueiro and the four children they hope to adopt. "This is to summarize it," he said.
Smith added, "We made a commitment to support kids. We are going to constantly have people who say things that constantly upset us. But instead of acting in a negative way, why not react in a positive way? ... Children come in our lives in all different ways. Children are loved, families are loved. Let's not define 'family'—let's just love family."
When asked about the argument that Dolce & Gabbana are entitled to free speech, Smith responded, "Yes, freedom of speech—not freedom to hate."
For more on the Family Equality Council, visit www.FamilyEquality.org .
