Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in April 2015. Jim Boggess, a deli owner in Flemington, New Jersey, wanted to celebrate his heritage and put up a sign in his shop window that read, “Celebrate Your White Heritage in March, White History Month.” He said it was meant to be positive, not offensive.

However, the sign sparked backlash. Customer Bhakti Curtis, who is of mixed-race descent, filed a police complaint, believing the sign mocked Black History Month and resembled white supremacist symbolism.

Although police found no legal violation, the controversy grew. After four days of criticism, Boggess removed the sign. But the damage was done—business dropped sharply, and within a month, he had to shut down his deli.

Note: we are republishing this story which originally made the news in April 2015. Despite apologizing to Curtis and even taking a photo together shaking hands, Boggess couldn’t recover. He later launched a GoFundMe page titled “Jimbo’s White History Sign Gone Bad,” expressing disappointment that his effort to show pride in his heritage cost him his livelihood.

He said he received supportive messages from across the country but ultimately lost his business and his dream.