The lines were long at the Fresno Chick-fil-A at Blackstone and Nees on Wednesday.
Thousands of supports of traditional marriage stood in the line for hours to show their support for the restaurant chain after a Chick-fil-A executive came under fire for saying he's against same sex marriage.
Many people stood in line for hours, only to be turned away, but said it was worth it. "Free speech is for all, not just a select few," said one supporter.
The rally was formed after the restaurant chain's CEO got major backlash when he said marriage is between a man and a woman.
The backlash caused a major frenzy among those who say he has the right to give his opinion just like folks who believe in same sex marriage give their opinion.
"It's a freedom of choice, for someone to choose this is how I want to run my life or restaurant and also freedom of religion," said a supporter.
Thousands packed the parking lot all day, many waiting in line for more than 2 hours.
"There is free speech and he spoke freely and I don't think that's a problem," said a supporter.
Jason Scott with GayFresno.Com says he believes the issue is the CEO is sending the wrong message. "A detriment to our community and also teaches young people that they're different and I feel that increases the risk of youth suicides."
Chick-fil-A Appreciation Day as it's being called was the idea of former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee.
Sonja Speck, owner of the Chick-fil-A in Fresno said, "I'm not surprised by the folks that showed up and I'm honored to be a part of the community and a part of a very civil community."
But not everyone supported the folks waiting in the lines. "When you come here and show support, that means you're showing that you are against civil rights, against people being treated fairly and equally," said one woman.
Similar support rallies were held at Chick-fil-A restaurants around the country.
Those against Chick-fil-A are protesting on Friday by having same sex couples kiss each other inside the restaurants.
