Recognizing “Karens”; a Regina bar capitalizes on the name that has become a social media sensation

A Regina bar is having some fun with the “Karen” phenomenon that has taken on a life of its own through social media.

Birmingham’s, in Regina’s east-end, is putting the finishing touches on “Karen” appreciation week. A week where all named Karen get 20 percent off their order.

Owner Chad Zipchian says it’s time the Karens out there got some respect after what they have had to deal with over the past few months.

“We are celebrating the name Karen because it has gotten a bad rap over the past little while.” Zipchian said. “If your name is Karen, you shouldn’t be ashamed of it so we are letting the Karens know we are thinking of them.”

Being a “Karen” has become symbolic after the name  attached to middle-class white women who act entitled in public for some unknown reason.

Zipchian says the week, which ends Sunday, has seen a lot of “Karens” come in to celebrate their name, have a fun night out and get 20 percent off their bill before leaving with a smile on their face which means mission accomplished.

With many bars still battling despite being open again following months of closure due to COVID-19, Zipchian says it is important to have some creativity in getting customers back to places like his.  He says those who are regulars at Birminghams know the staff thinks out of the box and this proves it.  He adds other promotions are coming that he hopes go over as well as the one saluting Karens.

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