LSU Board of Supervisors member Collis Temple Jr says the university should look at ending its relationship with Rouses Supermarkets because of co-owner Donald Rouse Sr’s participation in a pro-Trump rally before the riot on the U.S. Capitol. Temple says Rouse’s presence at the rally reflects poorly on LSU.
“Since Rouses and LSU have an exclusive arrangement, the public which LSU serves can view that relationship as being that of two entities with the same world view,” said Temple Jr.
Rouses is the official supermarket of LSU.
Donald Rouse Sr. said he attended a rally in Washington D.C. on January 6th as a supporter of the President and to be in the nation’s capital at the close of his presidency, but was at his hotel room when the Capitol was stormed by an angry and destructive mob.
Here’s more of what Donald Rouse Sr had to say:
“I left before the violence began and was shocked and saddened to see it unfold on TV. I condemn the actions of those who unlawfully entered and damaged our hallowed institutions and threatened our public servants. Violence and destruction do not represent our country’s values, or the values of Rouses.”
Temple says he’s concerned about the image of a business executive from a major advertiser being at that rally.
“LSU does not support rioting and insurrection against our United States and should not have that image reflected upon its sponsors,” said Temple.
It’s unclear if LSU will end its business relationship with the grocery store chain. Temple believes not doing so would send the wrong message.
“Bear in mind that silence is generally consent and we must move forward as it relates to inclusion and diversity in our social fabric,” said Temple.
###Previous story said Donald Rouse Sr attended the rally to protest the results of the election###. That’s not is not accurate and Louisiana Radio Network regrets the error.
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