After an internal memo went out to all Starbucks employees stating they were not permitted to wear Black Lives Matter attire to work, the company quickly retracted that statement after receiving backlash from the public. Starbucks original dress code states that employees are not allowed to wear buttons or pins that advocate a political, religious, or personal issue. However, not only did Starbucks change their minds about that original statement, they also designed a Black Lives Matter shirt for employees to wear if they choose. They made the announcement on social media with a photo of what the shirts will look like with the caption saying,
"Partners, we hear you and support standing up for justice while proudly wearing the green apron. Black Lives Matter. That is a fact and will never change. Together with our Black Partner Network, we've designed a Starbucks t-shirt for every U.S. and Canada partner to express our solidarity during this historic time. Until these arrive, we’ve heard you want to show your support, so just be you. Wear your BLM pin or t-shirt. We are so proud of your passionate support of our common humanity. We trust you to do what’s right while never forgetting Starbucks is a welcoming third place where all are treated with dignity and respect. We stand united."
Starbucks management also sent a letter out to employees in response to the backlash and the need for the company to stand together against racial injustice. You can read the full response here. What do you think about this?
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