In a significant move, Starbucks has announced the closure of its 8,000 locations across the United States for a day to address racial bias among its employees. This decision comes in response to a troubling incident where a manager at a Philadelphia Starbucks called the police on two Black men who were waiting for a friend, resulting in their arrest. The backlash against the coffee giant was swift, and Starbucks has taken steps to remedy the situation.
On May 29th, thousands of Starbucks stores will remain closed so that employees can participate in training designed to combat racial bias. A post on their official Facebook page outlines the company’s commitment, stating, “On May 29th, we will close our company-owned stores in the US to conduct racial-bias training in order to address implicit bias, promote conscious inclusion, and prevent discrimination so everyone feels safe and welcome at Starbucks.”
This initiative aims to train nearly 175,000 partners (employees) nationwide, making it a core part of the onboarding process for new hires. The company has partnered with experts to develop the training curriculum, ensuring accountability through ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the measures implemented. Starbucks expressed its shame regarding the Philadelphia incident and acknowledged that racial bias is a significant issue requiring immediate action.
While many applaud this proactive approach, some customers have voiced their displeasure, arguing that closing stores deprives them of their beloved beverages. Despite the criticism, Starbucks has maintained a respectful stance, articulating the necessity of their actions.
Insights from Starbucks CEO
Starbucks CEO, Mark Thompson, shared insights from his recent visit to Philadelphia, stating, “I’ve spent the last few days listening to the community, learning what we did wrong and the steps we need to take to fix it.” He emphasized the company’s commitment to being part of the solution and noted that the training is just one step in a long journey toward fostering inclusivity. Thompson also met with the two men involved in the incident, offering a heartfelt apology for their treatment.
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In summary, Starbucks is making a considerable effort to address racial bias through mandatory training, closing its stores for a day to create a more inclusive environment for all customers. While reactions are mixed, the company is dedicated to making a meaningful change.