During Pride weekend, 21 Starbucks stores across the United States were closed due to strikes organized by employees. The strikes were organized by the Starbucks Workers United, a union that represents Starbucks employees in various locations across the country. The union stated that the strikes were organized to demand better working conditions, higher wages, and more benefits for Starbucks employees.
The strikes took place in cities such as Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle, among others. In some locations, employees picketed outside the closed stores, holding signs that read “Starbucks: End LGBTQ discrimination” and “Starbucks: Pay us a living wage.” The strikes were timed to coincide with Pride weekend, a time when many companies show their support for the LGBTQ community.
The Starbucks Workers United union has been advocating for better working conditions for Starbucks employees for several years. The union has called for a $15 minimum wage, more affordable healthcare, and better scheduling practices. The union has also criticized Starbucks for its treatment of LGBTQ employees, citing instances of discrimination and harassment.
In response to the strikes, Starbucks released a statement saying that it is committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all employees and customers. The company also stated that it is committed to providing competitive wages and benefits to its employees. However, the Starbucks Workers United union has stated that the company’s actions do not match its words.
The strikes at Starbucks are part of a larger movement of workers across the country who are demanding better working conditions and higher wages. In recent years, there have been numerous strikes and protests organized by workers in various industries, including fast food, retail, and healthcare.
The strikes at Starbucks during Pride weekend highlight the intersection between workers’ rights and LGBTQ rights. Many LGBTQ individuals face discrimination and harassment in the workplace, and organizations such as the Starbucks Workers United union are working to address these issues.
Overall, the strikes at 21 Starbucks stores during Pride weekend serve as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for workers’ rights and the need for companies to prioritize the well-being of their employees. As the labor movement continues to gain momentum, it is likely that we will see more strikes and protests organized by workers in various industries across the country.
