A small-town Dairy Queen in Kewaskum, Wisconsin has unexpectedly found itself at the center of a national conversation after a sign outside its store went viral online.
The hand-painted notice, which included greetings like “Merry Christmas” and an offer of free sundaes for veterans, was described by its owner as “politically incorrect” — and it’s stirred both heartfelt praise and heated criticism across the country.
The Sign That Started It All
It was a simple sign, but one that carried a message larger than its size.
Displayed proudly outside the ice cream shop, the notice read:
“This restaurant is politically incorrect. We say Merry Christmas, God Bless America, and offer free sundaes to veterans.”
In a world where public messaging is often carefully neutral, the words stood out. Some saw it as a refreshing declaration of patriotism and tradition; others called it exclusionary, arguing that it sent the wrong message about who was welcome.
Within hours of someone sharing a photo of the sign on social media, it began circulating nationwide. Thousands of users shared it — some cheering the Dairy Queen for “standing up for its values,” others accusing the owner of alienating those who might not share the same beliefs.
Owner Kevin Scheunemann: “It’s About Respect”
The Dairy Queen’s franchise owner, Kevin Scheunemann, soon found himself fielding interview requests from local and national outlets alike. In his view, the message wasn’t meant to provoke — it was meant to express his values openly.
“I’m not trying to offend anyone,” Scheunemann told reporters. “I’m just sharing what I believe in — showing respect for our veterans, our country, and the traditions I grew up with. Everyone’s welcome here.”
To him, the sign represented a personal stance, not a corporate statement. He explained that he had posted the sign years earlier and never had an issue until the image went viral.
Supporters Applaud His Boldness
Across social media, many Americans — especially veterans and small business supporters — rallied behind Scheunemann.
Messages of encouragement poured in:
-
- “Finally, someone not afraid to say what they believe.”
- “As a veteran, I’ll drive miles just to buy ice cream from this Dairy Queen.”
- “Good for him. We need more kindness and gratitude, not less.”
Locals in Kewaskum, a town of just over 4,000 residents, echoed similar sentiments. For many, the Dairy Queen has long been more than a place for soft serve — it’s a community hub, especially on warm summer evenings when families gather and kids celebrate after Little League games.
“It’s always been friendly and welcoming,” one resident said. “That sign just tells you what kind of place this is — proud, respectful, and full of heart.”
Critics Say It Sends the Wrong Message
But not everyone saw it that way.
Some commenters online argued that the sign’s “politically incorrect” label created unnecessary division. “You don’t need to call others out to express what you believe,” one critic wrote. “It’s supposed to be a family restaurant, not a political platform.”
Others pointed out that by emphasizing specific greetings and beliefs, the sign could make some customers feel unwelcome. “Not everyone celebrates Christmas,” one post read. “A simple ‘Happy Holidays’ includes everyone.”
The conversation quickly grew beyond one Dairy Queen, reflecting a broader cultural debate about free speech, inclusivity, and the right to express personal beliefs in public spaces.
Dairy Queen Corporation Responds
As the story spread, Dairy Queen’s corporate office released a statement clarifying that franchisees operate independently — and that the sign outside the Kewaskum location represented only the personal views of its owner, not the company as a whole.
“The views expressed by this location’s owner are his own,” the company said. “Dairy Queen values inclusivity and welcomes all customers.”
The response was measured but clear, reminding the public that while the brand supports individual franchise owners, it also aims to maintain a welcoming environment for everyone.
A Symbol Larger Than a Sign
Weeks later, people are still talking about the small-town Dairy Queen and its controversial sign. For some, it has become a symbol of standing up for personal convictions and honoring tradition. For others, it serves as a reminder of how divided conversations about identity, language, and belonging have become.
In many ways, this single sign captures the tension of modern America: the balance between free expression and mutual respect — and the challenge of holding firm to personal beliefs while ensuring others feel included.
More Than Words
Whether you agree or disagree with the message, one thing is certain: Kevin Scheunemann’s sign sparked a conversation that stretched far beyond Kewaskum’s borders. It reminded Americans that even a small-town ice cream shop can become a crossroads of values, culture, and conscience.
As one local resident put it best:
“You can read that sign however you want. But at the end of the day, it’s still Dairy Queen — and there’s still ice cream for everyone.”
