Here's my letter...
Dear Sir or Madam,
Words cannot begin to express my disgust at one of Snapple's latest ads in which two Snapple bottles are portrayed as fraternity brothers who are paddling a pledge. Not only is the concept absolutely ridiculous, but it is also highly offensive to Greek fraternity and sorority members.
In case Snapple's advertising company has been living under the proverbial rock for the past several years, I think it is important to let you know that the governing bodies of national fraternity and sorority organizations have strictly outlawed any type of hazing -- particularly any actions that could cause physical harm to a Greek member. Greeks have worked so hard to overcome the negative stereotypes that are perpetuated throughout the media, only to be shot down time and again by inaccurate portrayals of Greek life from people who, for the most part, know next to nothing about the ideals that Greek organizations are based upon. It's extremely disheartening, and I am appalled that Snapple would put its name on such a disgusting advertisement.
I suggest that if you want to successfully promote your products using Greek letters that you do so in a positive way. Why don't you show a fraternity member needing an ice cold Snapple beverage after winning a Greek Week sport competition? Or a group of sorority women grabbing Snapples for refreshment after spending a long night walking in a relay race dedicated to raising money for cancer research? These types of events are just a few of the daily activities in which Greeks participate -- and for which they receive very little recognition.
I am just one of the many Greek members who has been angered by your advertisement, and please know that I posted a note on the Delta Zeta alumnae message board today to inform several hundred of my sorority sisters about it. They aren't pleased either, to say the least.
As of now, I am boycotting all Snapple products. I challenge you to remove the offensive ad immediately and make a public apology to Greek fraternity and sorority members for portraying them in such a poor light. If you meet both of those challenges, then I shall consider purchasing Snapple again.
Sincerely,
XXXXXXXXXXXX
Proud Delta Zeta alumna
Former Snapple customer
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