US coffee chain reinstates Pride flags after baristas complain

• Philz Coffee, a California-based chain, has reversed its decision to remove Pride flags from its cafes following public backlash.
• The company's CEO, Mahesh Sadarangani, issued a public apology, saying he "made a mistake" and acknowledging the hurt caused to the LGBTQIA+ community.
• Baristas initiated a petition against the policy, gathering over 1,000 signatures, while the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) mobilized over 14,000 members to pressure the company.
• Sadarangani's decision to reinstate the flags came after meetings with San Francisco Pride leaders, who praised his humility and willingness to listen.
• The company said that all existing Pride flags will remain, and any previously removed can be put back up, with plans to feature local artwork reflecting diverse communities.