Amid Backlash, New Jersey Business Owner Removes ‘Speak English’ Sign
A shop owner in New Jersey faced intense criticism after posting a sign that read, “Speak English or Pay $10 Extra.” The sign, displayed at Cutters Edge in Clifton, led to angry calls and negative reviews, with many demanding the store’s closure.
The sign ignited backlash from locals, with tweets like @iamfarias’s call to “SHUT THEM DOWN FOR BEING RACIST PIECES OF S–T!” and Jeremy Pierre questioning its legality. Keka R. on Yelp criticized the sign, saying, “Nobody should be charged for simply that.” Owner Dave Feinberg explained the sign was meant to address a frustrating experience with a non-English speaking customer but admitted it was a mistake. He noted, “I should have said nothing else than, ‘Just speak English.’”
Feinberg removed the sign, and considered an apology. Clifton council member Rosemary Pino criticized the sign, saying it was “odd in a town that prides itself on its diversity,” and added, “Messages like this put us back centuries.” The incident underscores the strong community response to perceived racism and the difficulty of repairing a damaged reputation.