Outrage at Print Store: Office Depot Apologizes After Employee Refuses to Print Prayer Vigil Poster, Citing “Political Propaganda”

Portage, Michigan –
A shocking incident at Office Depot’s Portage store (#3382) has sparked outrage online and in the local community after a customer was denied service while trying to print a poster for a prayer vigil honoring a deceased individual. The reason? The store’s print supervisor labeled the order as “political propaganda” because it featured a political figure.

According to video footage and eyewitness accounts, the customer calmly explained that the poster was for a memorial event, not a political campaign. However, the print supervisor and a manager stood firm, stating, “We don’t print that here. It’s propaganda.” When asked what made it propaganda, the supervisor replied, “Because he’s a political figure, and I don’t have to [print it].”

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The customer was told to return on Monday to speak with the general manager if they wished to pursue the matter further.

The incident quickly went viral on social media, with many expressing anger and disappointment over what they saw as both insensitivity and discrimination. “It’s just a prayer vigil for someone who passed away. How is that propaganda?” one commenter wrote. Others questioned whether the store was imposing personal biases over customer service.

Office Depot Responds Swiftly

In response to the backlash, Office Depot released a public statement expressing deep concern and regret:

“We are deeply concerned by the incident that occurred at store 3382 in Portage, Michigan. The behavior displayed by our associate is completely unacceptable and insensitive, violates our company policies, and does not reflect the values we uphold at Office Depot. We sincerely apologize to the customer affected and to our community for this regrettable situation.”

The company confirmed that they immediately contacted the customer to address their concerns and fulfill the order as requested. An internal review was launched, and Office Depot announced that the associate involved is “no longer with the organization.”

“We are committed to reinforcing training with all team members to ensure our standards of respect, integrity, and customer service are upheld at every location. Our customers and communities deserve nothing less,” the statement concluded.

Community Reaction

The incident has reignited discussions about sensitivity, bias, and the importance of treating all customers with respect, regardless of political or personal affiliations. Many in the community have praised Office Depot for taking swift action, but others say the episode is a reminder of the need for ongoing training and awareness.

As the story continues to circulate, it stands as a powerful example of how customer service missteps can quickly become national news—and how companies must be ready to respond with accountability and genuine commitment to their values.

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