A liberal Facebook group in New Jersey, known as Indivisible Blue Two Rivers, has been disbanded following a public outcry over its creation of a so-called "blacklist" of local businesses.
The owners of these businesses were suspected of supporting President-elect Donald Trump, and the group's 435 members were urged to boycott them.
According to The Post Millennial, the group's list encompassed a wide range of businesses in Monmouth County, from restaurants and liquor stores to children's centers. The owners of these establishments were allegedly supporters of "MAGA (Make America Great Again), Fox, or alt-right radio." In contrast, the group also compiled a list of "progressive" businesses for its members to patronize.
Jason Baurer, a local business owner, expressed his shock at the situation. "This was shocking when it was brought to my attention," Baurer told NJ.com. He owns a children's dance studio, Head Over Heals, in Middletown. "I dont really engage in social media banter back and forth; it never ends well. But the position of Head Over Heals is were non political. Were a childrens activity center. Were focused on that.
Another business owner, Eric Taliercio of Taliercios Ultimate Gourmet Deli, found his establishment on the controversial list. His business had run a promotion on Election Day, rewarding customers who voted. He later received messages from friends informing him he had been "blackballed." Taliercio expressed his disappointment to NJ.com, saying, To be listed in such a negative light, it was definitely disappointment. I know were a food place, and I know politically it doesnt matter my opinion. Im just selling food.
Middletown Mayor Tony Perry was quick to denounce the Facebook group's actions, defending the targeted businesses as integral parts of the community. What bothers me the most is that the political party of self-proclaimed tolerance is trying to hurt our friends and neighbors who might have a difference of political views, Perry stated. And these businesses, theyre the individuals that sponsor our Little League teams, they volunteer as first responders, they employ our residents and theyre part of the fabric of Middletown and we appreciate everything that they do for our town.
The backlash led to the removal of the blacklist post, and soon after, the Facebook group itself was disbanded. The group's administrators have yet to publicly comment on the incident, as reported by NJ.com.
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