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.
