New York CNN —
Starbucks will clarify its policy on Pride decorations following criticism and strikes at unionized stores.
“We intend to issue clearer centralized guidelines… for in-store visual displays and decorations that will continue to represent inclusivity and our brand,” Sara Trilling, president of Starbucks North America, wrote in an open letter Monday. “Additionally, we will continue to provide the flexibility needed so that our stores reflect the communities they serve.”
The company said it will lean on resources like its Period Planning Kit and its Siren’s Eye program, which include seasonal signage and display guidelines that are distributed across stores several times a year, to help.
Earlier this month, Starbucks Workers United, the union representing organized stores, claimed that Starbucks has restricted decorations celebrating Pride Month in locations in multiple states. Starbucks, in turn, forcefully denied this claim.
“I want to reiterate that there has been no change to any of our policies as it relates to our inclusive store environments, our company culture, and the benefits we offer our partners,” Trilling wrote in Monday’s letter. Since 2013, Starbucks has offered health coverage for gender affirming surgery.
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