The relationship between IU South Bend and Chick-fil-A debated

SOUTH BEND — The debate over whether Chick-fil-A should be allowed to sell sandwiches on campus at Indiana University South Bend continues. The university hosted a forum to discuss the controversial topic Tuesday night.

It started with an article in the campus newspaper, but has spread to a national debate about the line between civil and corporate rights. And even though Chick-fil-A sandwiches are again being sold at IU South Bend, the discussion is far from over.

A group of nearly 100 people gathered on campus Tuesday to discuss the relationship between the university and Chick-fil-A.

Last month, the school temporarily suspended the once-a-week sale of Chick-fil-A sandwiches on campus after word that a franchise in Pennsylvania was donating food to the Pennsylvania Family Institute and Family Life, two groups some consider anti-gay rights.

After a review, University Chancellor Uma Mae Reck re-instated Chick-fil-A as a food provider, stating the company has the right to provide its food and resources to any event it wants to support.

Tuesday’s forum was open to university officials, professors, students and alumni. And the conversation was intense. The university explained how vendors are chosen, and some in the audience suggested  students be included in that decision.

The discussion stayed civil, with no yelling, name calling or placing blame. Afterward, people on both sides shook hands and talked, showing that a chicken sandwich may be able to bring people together for more than just dinner.


The forum was sponsored by the Political Science Club and American Democracy Project. University officials say the issue is over and Chick-fil-A will remain a vendor. But some students are still pushing to have the company banned.