Updated 07/27/2009 08:25 AM
Group boycotts Concord Mills Mall over kiosk controversy
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CONCORD, N.C. -- Nearly 100 people draped with signage and backed by patriotic words lined the streets around Concord Mills on Sunday to protest the mall’s decision not to renew the lease of a kiosk owner who sells politically-themed merchandise.
Loren Spivack, owner of Free Market Warrior, says his lease is up Friday and the mall won't renew because of his politically conservative merchandise.
"I wanted to reach out to people who really believe in the American values I grew up with, which is freedom and free speech," he said.
The story gained national attention last week when owner Spivack appeared on national news shows like Fox Business and Glenn Beck.
The protestors say the owner of the mall, Simon Property, should not make a decision because they don’t agree with Spivack’s views. Unless something changes, they say they won't buy anything at the mall.
"We feel it is a strong violation of our First Amendment rights and that's why we are all out here, to show the support to free market warrior," protestor Cami Bambini said.
A spokesperson for the mall told News 14 Carolina that it is against corporate policy to comment on landlord-tenant negotiations.
The demonstrators plan to be out again Monday.