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Article

12 Jun 2020

Author:
John Bowden, The Hill

USA: Starbucks prohibits employees' visible support for Black Lives Matter, despite encouraging signs of support for LGBTQ+ equality

"Starbucks bans employees from wearing anything in support of Black Lives Matter", 11 Jun 2020

"An internal memo sent to Starbucks employees last week specifically warned staffers against wearing accessories or clothes bearing messages in support of the Black Lives Matter movement. The memo, obtained by BuzzFeed News, reminds staffers that such messages are prohibited under the company's policy against accessories that "advocated a political, religious or personal issue." Numerous employees told the news outlet, however, that the company regularly allows or even encourages employees to wear pins in support of LGBTQ equality, especially during Pride Month every June."... 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 the messages are displayed in stores.... 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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