Banning Beer Names

Several years ago I was stopped at a stop light when I noticed the adjacent vehicle had a bumper sticker that read "Ban Everything; Protect the Easily Offended". Instantly, I was able to relate to the bumper sticker. It seems as though people have thinner skin they used to in regards to their surroundings. I am sure you are wondering how this pertains to beer.

Courtesy BeerNews.org

Well, this morning I woke up to find the article regarding one of Colorado's new breweries, Funkwerks, in which they were being demonized for one of their recent labels. As you can see above, it relates to the indigenous people of New Zealand. Long story short, the Maori people are offended with the name of the beer as well as the image and are asking the brewery to change the name and artwork. So far, Funkwerks has not made an announcement on whether they will make any changes.

This isn't the first time a beer label has offended somebody. Some other "offenders" include Lost Abbey's Witches Wit, several of the Clown Shoe labels as well as Flying Dog's Raging Bitch beer. As stated before, I believe people go over board when trying they see something that offends them. At some point, why not turn your head instead of trying to ban it? 

I would love to hear from some of you. Should Funkwerks change the name of the beer? Or should they leave it at the apology they have already issued? 

For more on this story, please read it on the BeerNews website. Prost!