I recently opened a new account at Bank of America. They gave me a nice big book of check design choices, and I noticed that between the Betty Boop and Scooby Doo checks, they had several designs that incorporated either angels or Biblical quotes. But there were no checks featuring Jewish, Moslem, or even atheist designs.
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Now at the risk of gaining early entry into the Old Cranks Society, I dropped a note to BoA:
When I recently opened a secondary checking account at BoA, I was offered a wide selection of check designs, including many religious/spiritual checks. I did not, however, see any non-Christian designs: Jewish, Moslem, or atheist (Darwin fish, etc) checks available. Do you offer these designs or is your supply limited to Christian checks?
I received a form-letter reply in email the next day:
Dear (Cynicor),
Thank you for your inquiry dated 8/5/05 regarding our selection of checks for order.
You have choices when it comes to ordering checks. You can choose the same checks as your previous order or change your order, including the quantity, style, bindings, and address. To begin, please follow the steps below:
- Click on the Customer Service tab
- Choose Reorder checks and deposit slips
- Select the appropriate account from the drop down arrow
- Click on Go.
Deposit slips for checking accounts can also be ordered by clicking on Accessories, then on Deposit Tickets.
You may visit http://www.clarkeamerican.com/ to view the designs of checks that we offer, and then contact us to order your preferences.
If we may be of further assistance, please contact us again by e-mail. Thank you for choosing Bank of America.
Sincerely,
(representative)
Bank of America
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I wrote back to them yesterday, and am awaiting a reply on the next business day:
Thank you for your reply. I am aware of the choices I have when ordering checks. Upon visiting the Clarke American site, I can choose the Endless Grace series, which features Biblical quotes like "The Lord is my shepherd...." The Cherubs series features Christian angel paintings. My original question, however, is whether in addition to these Christian-themed checks, whether you offer Jewish, Moslem, or atheist-themed checks to your customers. If not, I'm curious as to why these aren't available. Thanks again!
So what do you think? Is there any market for culturally inclusive checking?