As residents of South Orange, Maplewood and the surrounding area, we look to the evoke a sense of goodwill, diversity and acceptance in our community in everything that we do. For it is only through doing so can we hope to build the kind of lives we came here to live, for ourselves, our children, and our families.

Regardless of who was at fault, the actions of St James's Gate Publick House employee James Meade on the night of January 8, 2013 were wholly unacceptable. Gay slurs should not be tolerated under any circumstances -- and claiming ignorance that the individual in question was a member of the group you were defaming is no excuse for their use.

We citizens of the surrounding area seek two things from the owners of the St James's Gate Publick House:

1. A formal apology to the community, and a declaration that they share our inclusive spirit in terms of welcoming and cherishing patrons of all creeds, colors, and faiths.

2. The resignation of James Meade from his position at the establishment.

Until such a time as these requests are met, the undersigned have agreed to boycott the establishment in question, offering our support and patronage to those merchants in the community that treat all of their patrons with equal care and respect.

By hurting one of us, you hurt all of us. Please show us that St James's Gate Publick House is better than this.

(To learn more about the incident in question, please follow this link: http://maplewood.patch.com/articles/judge-finds-cause-in-complaint-against-st-james-gate-bartender )