"Recently, I went there after a long night out with my best friend, who had just returned from serving in Afghanistan. We were discussing Don't Ask, Don't Tell and gay rights when we finished our meal and prepared to leave. I noticed I was the last customer in the restaurant when a young man, around 22 years old, started berating me about making him sick during his meal.
I stood up for myself and reminded him that our Constitution protects freedom of speech. He responded by saying he was friends with the manager and sided with him. I calmly informed the young man that I had the right to discuss whatever I deemed necessary.
Then, the manager threatened to have me escorted out by the police if I didn't leave. He indicated that he would call law enforcement. Just then, my friend, who had served in Afghanistan, walked in and pulled me out of the restaurant. This caused a loud argument between my friend and the manager. Ultimately, I felt pressured to leave without standing up for my rights.
This entire experience felt like my first encounter with a hate crime. I have no plans to return, and I intend to reach out to the owner."
