California coffee chain reinstates policy on Pride flags after swift backlash
Summary
Philz Coffee, a San Francisco-based coffee chain, initially decided to remove Pride flags from their stores but reversed this decision after receiving strong backlash from employees and customers. The company’s chief executive apologized and reinstated the flags, emphasizing their importance as symbols of safety and belonging for LGBTQ+ people.Key Facts
- Philz Coffee decided to take down Pride flags and other flags for consistency.
- This decision caused quick negative reactions from employees, customers, and local leaders.
- An online petition against the flag removal gained over 7,300 signatures.
- CEO Mahesh Sadarangani apologized, calling the removal a mistake.
- The CEO credited local Pride leaders for helping him understand the issue and led to the reversal of the policy.
- Philz Coffee is known as an ally to the LGBTQ+ community and has over 80 locations in California and Chicago.
- Pride flags have recently been politically controversial, with some government actions removing them from public spaces.
- Some cities have found new ways to show LGBTQ+ support, like rainbow benches and plaques, in response to flag removals.
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