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We've had reports that a Hooters Bar is opening up in Bristol. This is a bit off the beaten track for us, but I'm really interested in opinions. 'Gallus Management' are trying to sneak the Bristol 'Hooters' in through the back door. Because there was no reference to Hooters in the application, the official deadline for objections passed before anyone found out. This has caused a lot of controversy and strife in the city. What do you think - is this method of sneakily getting something passed a breach of our democratic rights? Does anyone know if there is an age-restriction on entering a Hooters? If not then the issue is very closely linked to the magazines, because it will normalise the objectification of women to children and young people, and will also contribute like so many things to their early sexualisation. Citizens in Bristol have set up a petition to oppose this Hooters bar and you don't have to be from Bristol to sign. They believe that the bar may put children and young people who use facilities close by at risk. Has anyone else heard of 'Gallus Management'? One to watch out for in council applications for eating establishments - I'm told there are plans to open 38 of them across England, though I don't know if they'll all be hiding behind the same company.
I'm not 100% sure but I don't think there is an age-restriction on entering Hooters. I remember seeing an American reality show where a couple and their young children went to eat at a Hooters so I assume there is no age limit.
I don't understand how they could make no reference to Hooters in the application - it is a huge breach of our democratic rights. The thought of 38 of them across England does not fill me with optimism! I have just come back from America and saw restaurants there which were similar to Hooters which only made me feel demeaned as a woman and embarrassed at the same time. I do not think yet another form of female exploitation is necessary in England and will only contribute to the instant gratification and over sexualised culture children are growing up in.
I haven't heard of Gallus Management but will definitely watch out for them. Let's hope they don't give them the go ahead.
Yes Hooters were given a licence for Bristol although there may be an appeal. In my view the fact that the premises are intended to be a breast-themed restaurant is pretty material! And of course should have been disclosed in the application.
Interestingly during the hearing the applicant repeatedly used the phrases "wholesome" and "family friendly" and kept referring to an "extensive children's menu". However, the applicant was equally ready to sign up to licence conditions barring children after 9pm. It is a travesty. Follow the blog here.
It is pretty obvious that "wholesome" actually is being employed to reference nostalgia for the "good old days" when women were acknowledged as second class citizens, and knew their place, and could be relied upon to perform social and sexualised favours as part of the 'package' required in the workplace. Deeply, deeply offensive and unwelcome.
New petition for appeal against the license that was granted: http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/close-hooters-in-bristol-now.html I was particularly shocked by the story of a 12-year-old boy having his birthday party at Hooters, and receiving a breast cake complete with nipples, and girlie calendars in the party bags. I'm not surprised that Hooters would do this, particularly, but I'm amazed that a parent would book it, and even more amazed that others parents would allow their children to go. I mean, seriously?....
