Starbucks has come under fire after the company allegedly issued an internal memo telling employees no to wear Black Lives Matter memorabilia at work because it could “amplify divisiveness”.
On 1 June, the coffee retailer tweeted its support for the global movement that has been galvanised by the killing of George Floyd, tweeting: “We stand in solidarity with our Black partners, customers and communities.”
But according to an internal bulletin obtained by Buzzfeed, after Starbucks managers in the US had relayed requests from employees to wear items supporting Black Lives Matter at work, the requests were denied.
Quoting from the company’s dress code policy, the memo stated: “Partners may only wear buttons or pins issued to the partner by Starbucks for special recognition or for advertising a Starbucks-sponsored event of promotion [...] partners are not permitted to wear buttons or pins that advocate a political, religious, or personal issue”.
Referring to remarks made by Zing Shaw, the company’s vice president for inclusion and diversity, the memo continued: “In response to the question, our vp of Inclusion and Diversity, Zing Shaw, shared additional context on why clothing and accessories highlighting Black Lives Matter do not currently adhere to policy.
“She explains there are agitators who misconstrue the fundamental principles of the Black Lives Matter movement – and in certain circumstances, intentionally re-purpose them to amplify divisiveness.”
The memo continued: “We know your intent is genuine and understand how personal this is for so many of us. This is important and we hear you.”
The message concluded by telling employees they could support Starbucks’ black partners by wearing the “Black Partner Network’s ‘Keep It Brewing’ T-shirt.”
A Starbucks spokesperson told Buzzfeed that the company is dedicated to ending “systemic racism,” but that the dress code policy stays in place because it is necessary “to create a safe and welcoming” environment for customers and staff.
“We respect all of our partners’ opinions and beliefs, and encourage them to bring their whole selves to work while adhering to our dress code policy,” the spokesperson added.
However, Buzzfeed‘s report has sparked a major backlash on social media, with Starbucks customers calling for a boycott.
“Shame on you,” tweeted one person.
“Just found out @Starbucks is catering to the comfort of their racist customers by asking their staff not to wear anything in support of @Blklivesmatter so I won’t be visiting them and I’ll be telling EVERYONE I KNOW to boycott them as well. #boycottstarbucks,” added another.
The Independent has contacted Starbucks for comment.
