Shortly after the province's vaccine passport requirements took effect last week, Cookstown Home Hardware posted a sign outside to let customers know they do not require proof of vaccination to enter the building.
The digital sign reads "Vaccinated or Not, All Are Welcome."
Store manager Neil Currie says he has received mostly positive feedback from customers on the sign.
"I had one negative (comment), dealt with it and explained the situation. We aren't trying to hurt anybody or do anything wrong," said Currie.
But not everyone was happy about the new sign.
"I realize that the unvaccinated people can go to food stores and other places, but it seems wrong to put out an invitation on the main drag through town," said resident Bill Long.
"This is a real slap in the face to the people of Innisfil and Cookstown as we have spent months in isolation with all the stress and depression that entails. This works against us all," he added.
Local business owner Brian Scott, of Innisfil Creek Honey, said he liked the sign. On Monday morning, he posted a photo of himself in front of the sign on social media with words of support.
"I am vaccinated, but believe that it is every Canadian's right to decide what they do with their own body. Body rights should not be dictated by anyone. We are Canada," said Scott.
The post caused some controversy in the comments of Scott's post, with some suggesting the sign is a way to encourage anti-vaccination, while others echoed their support for the sign and Scott's message.
When asked why he felt he needed to put up a sign, since the mandate does not require retail stores to confirm vaccine status, Currie says it was because many customers had been calling into ask if they would be required to show their vaccine passport.
"We don't obviously have to do that (put up a sign), but we wanted to make it clear at the road," he said.
