Starbucks Workers Claim Ban on Pride Decorations in 21 States
Starbucks workers claim that stores in at least 21 states have banned Pride decorations and other LGBTQ+-themed merchandise this year. The claims have been met with anger and frustration from employees and customers, and have led to calls for a boycott of the company.
The bans reportedly come from both corporate and district management, and have been enforced at both union and non-union stores. In some cases, workers have been told that they cannot hang Pride flags or other decorations because they are “not safe” or because they “aren’t welcoming for everyone.”
— Starbucks Workers United (@SBWorkersUnited) June 14, 2023
Starbucks has denied that there is a ban on Pride decorations, and has said that it is “committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment for all employees and customers.” However, the company has not been able to provide a clear explanation for why the bans have been implemented.
The claims of a ban on Pride decorations have come at a time when Starbucks is facing increasing scrutiny for its labor practices. In recent months, the company has been hit with a wave of unionization drives, and workers have accused the company of retaliating against union organizers.
The ban on Pride decorations is a clear message to LGBTQ+ employees and customers that Starbucks does not fully support them. It is likely to make LGBTQ+ employees feel unwelcome and unsafe at work, and it could discourage LGBTQ+ customers from patronizing Starbucks. This ban is a further sign of the growing tensions between Starbucks management and its employees. It is also a reminder of the ongoing battle for LGBTQ+ rights in the United States.
What can be done to fight the ban?
There are a number of things that can be done to fight the ban on Pride decorations at Starbucks.
- Contact Starbucks management and express your support for LGBTQ+ employees and customers. You can do this by calling the company’s customer service line or by writing to the CEO.
- Boycott Starbucks. Until the company reverses the ban, you can choose to take your business elsewhere.
- Support Starbucks Workers United. The union is fighting for better working conditions for all Starbucks employees, including LGBTQ+ employees. You can support the union by donating or volunteering.
The ban on Pride decorations is a discriminatory policy that must be reversed. By taking action, we can send a message to Starbucks that we will not stand for discrimination against LGBTQ+ employees and customers.