Starbucks updated their policy, allowing citizens to sit-in and utilize their restrooms without having to purchase anything. In a recent press announcement, Starbucks states that they are “committed to creating a culture of warmth and belonging where everyone is welcome.” This new outlook arrives on the heels of the Philadelphia incident, which occurred back in April. Two African-American men were arrested after being denied the use of a restroom. The two men were waiting for a third friend to arrive. Rashon Nelson and Donte Robinson was then arrested and jailed. After received major backlash from the public, Starbucks announced that they would close over 8,000 U.S. locations on May 29 to devote time to training employees on racial-bias. As for Nelson and Robinson, Starbucks settled with the two for an undisclosed amount and an offer for free college tuition, according to the Associated Press. Also, the city of Philadelphia presented them a symbolic $1 each and a promise to create a $200,000 program for young entrepreneurs.
