Starbucks, like many other businesses and retailers, took to social media to proclaim their support for the black community amid nationwide protests against police brutality and social injustice.
But while their social accounts were saying one thing, their employees were hearing another. An internal memo sent to Starbucks employees last week specifically warned employees against wearing accessories or clothing bearing messages in support of the Black Lives Matter movement, according to The Hill.
The memo, which was obtained by BuzzFeed News, reminds staffers that such messages are prohibited under the company’s policy against accessories that “advocate a political, religious or personal issue.”
But employees were clearly confused by the stance because the company regularly allows, and in some cases, even encourages employees to wear pins in support of LGBTQ equality, according to numerous employees that spoke to BuzzFeed. It is especially encouraged during Pride Month every June.
“Starbucks LGBTQ+ partners wear LGBTQ+ pins and shirts, that also could incite and create violent experiences amongst partners and customers,” one black transgender Starbucks employee told BuzzFeed. “We have partners who experienced harassment and transphobia/homophobia for wearing their pins and shirts, and Starbucks still stands behind them.”
A video from a top company executive reportedly sent with the memo warned employees that “agitators who misconstrue the fundamental principles” of the movement could seek to “amplify divisiveness” if messages of support are displayed in stores.
“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 memo read.
Just so y’all know it’s real, a company spokesperson confirmed the memo’s authenticity to BuzzFeed and said that such messages are prohibited “to create a safe and welcoming” environment at Starbucks locations.
“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 said.
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