Recently, coffee retailer Starbucks found itself at the center of controversy when an activist group accused the company of scaling back LGBTQ-themed decorations during PRIDE month. The accusations came from Starbucks Workers United, an activist group composed of Starbucks employees advocating for a better workplace environment. While the group claimed that management in several Starbucks franchises had opted to tone down PRIDE displays across the United States, Starbucks vehemently denied these allegations.
According to a Twitter thread shared by Starbucks Workers United, the group alleged that Starbucks had banned PRIDE decorations in their stores nationwide, which they claimed was a departure from the company’s previous support of the LGBTQ+ community. They attributed this alleged change in policy to the backlash and boycotts faced by retail giant Target, which removed some PRIDE merchandise due to pressure from anti-LGBTQ+ groups.
Furthermore, the group criticized Starbucks for purportedly adopting changes to transgender insurance benefits that placed a greater financial burden on employees. They argued that if Starbucks were truly an ally, they would stand up for their LGBTQ+ workers, especially during a time when the community is under attack.
Starbucks quickly responded to the allegations, refuting any suggestion that stores were instructed to remove PRIDE decorations. In a statement to Florida’s Voice, the company emphasized its history of recognizing and celebrating diversity, including its ongoing support for the LGBTQIA2+ community. Starbucks reaffirmed its commitment to fostering an inclusive environment for both partners (employees) and customers alike.
“We unwaveringly support the LGBTQIA2+ community. There has been no change to any policy on this matter and we continue to encourage our store leaders to celebrate with their communities including for U.S. Pride month in June.”
It continued, “For Starbucks, U.S. Pride Month in June is just one of the moments we support and celebrate our LGBTQIA2+ partners and the community, and it’s our own partners who inform the commitments and actions we have continued to take for more than four decades.”
