Starbucks denies allegations of banning LGBTQ+ shows in US shops; Union organizers nonetheless skeptical

By Associated Press: Starbucks is denying union organizers’ claims that it’s banning Pride shows in its US shops within the wake of Target and different manufacturers experiencing a backlash.

But Starbucks Workers United, the union organizing US Starbucks shops, says retailer managers across the nation have been curbing or eradicating shows throughout a monthlong celebration of LGBTQ+ individuals. In some instances, the union stated, managers informed employees that Pride shows have been a security concern, citing current incidents at Target the place some offended prospects tipped over merchandise and confronted employees.

“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 US Pride month in June,” the Seattle espresso large stated Tuesday in an announcement.

Starbucks has been outspoken in its assist for LGBTQ+ workers for many years and stated Tuesday that assist is “unwavering.” It prolonged full well being advantages to same-sex companions in 1988 and added well being protection for gender reassignment surgical procedure in 2013.

The firm can be presently promoting Pride-themed tumblers in its shops designed by Toronto artist Tim Singleton, who’s homosexual.

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But Ian Miller, a union organizer and Starbucks supervisor in Olney, Maryland, stated the corporate’s tone has modified this yr, citing his personal retailer supervisor informing him that he wanted prior approval to place up Pride decorations and that the corporate was looking for extra “uniformity” in its shops.

The supervisor additionally allegedly cited the backlash in opposition to Bud Light when it partnered with a transgender influencer after which tried to stroll again its assist. Its US gross sales subsequently plummeted.

Miller stated the supervisor finally let an worker put up small rainbow flags within the retailer, however the firm bank card wasn’t used to purchase them, as had been allowed up to now.

“It’s disrespectful and counterintuitive,” Miller stated.

Miller’s supervisor declined to remark Tuesday when contacted by The Associated Press. Starbucks didn’t reply to questions in regards to the insurance policies at Miller’s retailer.

Miller’s retailer is one in every of greater than 300 Starbucks shops that has voted to unionize since 2021. Starbucks opposes the unionization effort.