A sign outside Tom's Barbershop that says "Black labs matter" and suggests supporting the MSPCA is getting a strong reaction in Norton, Massachusetts. But barber Tom Stevens says humor is his way of life.

"It's just a sign, it's a way to have fun, it's a way to reach out, it's a way to tell people I'm here," he said.

But some residents said the sign outside his barbershop is far from funny.

"Putting a joke to something that hurt so many people, it's not the right way to go," one resident said.

"So I think it's kinda funny when you can make a play on words, and the MSPCA is a good thing to support, so black labs matter," Stevens said.

Many voiced their frustration on social media, one person writing: "Of course I'm an animal rights supporter but in the grand scheme of things, yeah what he put on his sign could be very offensive, I would be offended by it."

Stevens responded online, saying: "Some people need to lighten up. Ha ha ha pun intended."

Stevens stands by his statements.

"I guess a bunch of people are getting offended by it, but like I said, I don't care," he said.

While others insist that it's no laughing matter, Stevens points out that he does use the sign to draw donations, which he gives to local charities.

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Julian Conley listens during opening statements in his trial at Fulton County Superior Court in Atlanta on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025. The 25-year-old is accused of fatally shooting 8-year-old Secoriea Turner in July 2020. (Abbey Cutrer/AJC)

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