Billboards have a tendency to stir up emotions every now and then. Sometimes, they aim to start a conversation around a controversial topic. Other times, they simply want to catch the attention of passing drivers. However, a recent Harley-Davidson billboard has sparked a nationwide controversy due to its “offensive” language that didn’t sit well with many people.
The advertisement was straightforward. It encouraged individuals to leave their troubles behind and embrace a life of adventure on a Harley motorcycle. The tagline, however, is what caused the uproar:
“Leave all the bulls**t in the wind behind you.”
Crafted by the Bayside Harley-Davidson dealer in Portsmouth, the ad was designed to resonate with those who were considering purchasing a bike and embarking on the open road. Shawn Robinson, the dealership’s general manager, believed that the tagline accurately captured the experience of riding a motorcycle and hoped that people would not be overly sensitive to the choice of words.
When asked about the controversy, Robinson expressed his surprise at the offense taken by members of the local community. The billboard was located along I-264 East and quickly drew complaints via phone calls and scathing social media posts.
“The billboard company and Harley-Davidson both approved the ad, so we didn’t consider it to be offensive,” Robinson stated.
However, some men in the area were furious, seeing the Harley-Davidson ad as a negative influence on their children. Brian Robbins expressed his concern, stating, “Before you know it, there will be nothing but a bunch of idiots swearing around my kids with zero respect for innocence. My six-year-old, who reads everything she sees, will read this and be shocked. Profanity has its time and place, but not on a public highway.”
Voicing a similar sentiment, Mark Bethel added, “Yes, there’s freedom of speech, but ultimately, the billboard companies have the final say.”
In response to the controversy, Portsmouth City Councilman Bill Moody confirmed that the billboard was within its rights as it was situated on Bayside’s property.
Robinson clarified, “We certainly didn’t intend to offend anyone with the billboard. It wasn’t our aim, but it happened. Perhaps, like all advertising, we’ll receive some attention from it.”
However, Robinson also emphasized that he would like locals to shift their focus from the billboard’s language to the real issues facing the Portsmouth community. He highlighted the economic challenges the city is facing and suggested that the focus should be on approving the downtown casino rather than worrying about the use of profanity on a street sign.
Opinions regarding the billboard are divided. Supporters argue that, since the sign was aimed at bikers, it wasn’t inappropriate. On the other hand, parents of young children have valid concerns as the billboard was located on a public highway.
What are your thoughts on the matter? Should the billboard stay or should it go?
