In an attempt to diversify your shopping experience, Wal- Mart has joined forces with the corporate advisory council of the National Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce. Not all gay activists or Wal-Mart activists for that matter support this action though.

This change risks alienating loyal patrons. Many patrons have already discontinued shopping at Wal-Mart because of its shift from the ¡§pro-family¡¨ stance. In 2002, Wal-Mart pulled a pregnant Barbie Doll of shelves, because many parents said it promoted teenage pregnancy even though Barbie wore a wedding ring. But, this year Wal-Mart ignored the American Family Assn. by continuing to carry stocks of ¡§Brokeback Mountain¡¨. They have products aimed at same sex marriages such as greeting cards that read, Mrs. And Mrs.

Wal-Mart can do what it wants. It will be criticized, and it is a culture war.