Last week, Starbucks sent an internal memo sent to employees warning 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.” The pushback against the memo was swift and furious.
However, the coffee chain giant on Friday reversed its stance, saying that it supports employees wearing clothing that supports the Black Lives Matter movement.
“We see you. We hear you. Black Lives Matter. That is a fact and will never change,” Starbucks said in a statement. “This movement is a catalyst for change, and right now, it’s telling us a lot of things need to be addressed so we can make space to heal,” it continues.
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“As we talked about earlier this week, we’re designing new t-shirts with the graphic below to demonstrate our allyship and show we stand together in unity. 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.”
Read the entire memo here.
