Starbucks, which has long presented itself as LGBTQ+ friendly, is facing backlash after reports emerged that some stores across the United States have banned Pride decorations. The accusation sparked outrage and attracted considerable attention from both the far right, which celebrated the news, and those who advocate for LGBTQ rights.
However, Starbucks quickly denied the allegations and firmly affirmed its commitment to inclusivity. The Starbucks Workers United union filed the charge with the National Labor Review Board. The move is the first time Starbucks has been accused of such a stance.
The issue came to light when the Starbucks United Twitter account tweeted about the situation. Employees originally started the petition in early June, reaching out to Starbucks CEO Laxman Narasimhan and expressing their concerns about no longer being allowed to decorate their stores for Pride or other holidays. The petition has reached 1,000 co-worker signatures at the time of writing.
The petition highlighted the importance of supporting and welcoming both customers and partners, especially at a time when LGBTQ+ rights, including transgender rights, are under attack.
“At a time when LGBT+ rights, especially transgender rights, are under attack, it is important that both customers and partners feel supported and welcomed… Why is the company backing away from supporting its LGBT partners? What is to be gained by making every store depressingly identical, with no personality?” reads the petition.
The petition received significant support, with over 2,500 signatures at the time of publication
On June 7, Workers United filed a labor charge with the National Labor Relations Board, alleging that Starbucks unilaterally banned Pride decorations from union stores in Oklahoma City.
The lawsuit also alleged that the beverage joint refused to engage in negotiations with the union regarding the decision and its impact on employees.
The situation drew comparisons to how Target removed Pride merchandise and displays from its stores following criticism from right-wing media and subsequent harassment and threats.
“Starbucks is powered by many queer workers, but management has failed to materially support the LGBTQ+ community,” the tweet read.
The union also cited changes to the transgender benefits plan that allegedly led to additional expenses and limited access to some providers. Similar incidents occurred last June, prompting the union to file charges against the coffee chain with the National Labor Relations Board.
The union emphasized that a true alliance with the LGBTQ+ community involved negotiating a union contract that legally protects benefits, free speech and accountability mechanisms.
“If Starbucks were a true ally, they would stand up for us, especially at a time when LGBTQ+ people are under attack… A company that cares would not turn its back on the LGBTQ+ community to protect its already astronomical profits.” the union page tweeted
In response to the allegations, Starbucks spokesman Andrew Trull denied any changes in company policy. Reiterating Starbucks’ unwavering support for the LGBTQ+ community, Trull said, “No policy has changed on this matter, and we continue to encourage our store leaders to celebrate with their communities, including the month of June in the U.S. Pride…deeply concerned about untruths. information that is being disseminated, particularly regarding our inclusive store environment, our company culture and the benefits we offer our partners.”
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