In a digitally charged society, misinformation can ignite faster than a wildfire, causing unnecessary controversy and potential damage to those caught in its blaze. Recently, Starbucks found itself embroiled in a social media storm, with calls for a boycott of the company over perceived sponsorship of this year’s Republican National Convention (RNC). But is there any truth to these claims? According to a Starbucks spokesperson, the answer is a resounding ‘no.’ Let’s break down the situation and understand the underlying confusion.
Starbucks, a company often viewed as progressive, has faced a wave of online protests triggered by claims that it is sponsoring this year’s RNC, held in Milwaukee. These accusations began to circulate on social media outlets, such as X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook, with images showcasing numerous company and group logos — including Starbucks’ iconic twin-tailed siren — many belonging to conservative organizations like The Heritage Foundation, and Turning Point USA. The contention incited by this picture also roped in ‘Project 2025,’ under discussion in the 2024 election cycle, adding more fuel to the fire.
Project 2025, proposed by the Heritage Foundation, an official RNC sponsor, suggests that the GOP presidential nominee, former President Donald Trump, should install Republican loyalists across all tiers of the federal bureaucracy upon his potential return to the White House. Despite the initiation of this political agenda, Trump has steadfastly maintained that he knows “nothing” about it.
Despite the outcry, Starbucks revealed that it is not “sponsoring” the RNC but is instead offering coffee to first responders and volunteers in the area. This service isn’t partisan; Starbucks maintains a similar partnership with host committees serving the Democratic National Convention (DNC) being held later this year in Chicago. Starbucks clarified that its support for first responders and volunteers reflects its ongoing commitment to the communities where it operates—including Milwaukee and Chicago.
The confusion arose from a gratitude gesture present on the website of the Milwaukee 2024 Host Committee, thanking its partners for their part in organizing the convention. As Starbucks is included in the array of logos, social media users mistakenly categorised the company as an official RNC sponsor.
Starbucks, a company that champions a “culture of belonging,” has a history of working towards progressive ideals. The company’s forward-thinking actions include providing complete health benefits, including coverage for same-sex domestic partners, for both full and part-time employees since the 1980s. This year, they have taken further steps to foster an equal environment, attaining 100% gender pay equity for its U.S partners, and launching the “Inclusive Spaces Framework”, a new accessibility guideline for their U.S stores.
However, Starbucks isn’t without controversy. From union-busting accusations to social media instigated boycotts over alleged support of Palestinians, the company’s progressive ethos has faced challenges. Nevertheless, Starbucks persists in their commitment to fostering an inclusive environment and serving communities across political divides. With their coffee fueling volunteers and first responders, they continue to strive for a culture of unity and belonging amid divisive political events.
