What Starbucks Should Do Next
As I was reflecting on the bold move of Starbucks to close 8,000 stores May 29th to provide “racial bias” training I sensed the willingness of the CEO, Kevin Johnson to adjust the sails at Starbucks. I felt concern for him as he vowed "this will never happen again at Starbucks." Unless Kevin can change the heart and history of a nation mired in ongoing racial terrorism, trauma, and stereotypes, and the explicit and implicit bias that results, his claim of never again is heartfelt but unfeasible.
Kevin Johnson's barista's are like any other people in America. Inundated with images and language that predisposes us to categorize each other as "other." Inundated with narratives of who to fear and who to trust. False narratives that intentionally omit the truth of the inherent dignity of the human being. Narratives that belie the truth, that we are all connected to one another. It is our connectedness that makes so many of us sick when we witness the brutality of racism. It is our connectedness that I believe made Kevin Johnson speak with such conviction that "this will never happen again at Starbucks."
Reconciliation and atonement are the precursors of forgiveness and moving on. As shown in countries where the work of reconciliation has been successful like Rawanda and South Africa, healing requires a willingness to hear and atone for the pain inflicted. We cannot escape the process of going through the gut wrenching admittance, guilt, and amends necessary to heal. I've felt the pain of every trauma I have healed from. How long will we ignore and seek to shortcut this part of the process? As a nation, America has passed over the violent history of our inception and perpetration of white supremacy with a minimum of concern. It is time for surgery of the spirit. Our soul is at stake. The Dream of America, the Great Experiment, is still viable. I pray there are enough of us of all colors, backgrounds, political, and spiritual persuasions to bring her forth.
Kevin Johnson may not be able to force a reckoning of a Nation, (he can influence it) however, he can, and seems willing to, create a reckoning at Starbucks. Let that reckoning be comprehensive.
Cover all of the spokes in the wheel that keeps racism rolling. Will four hours of training help? I do not know; but it is a start. As a long time diversity and inclusion program designer, trainer, and consultant I do know that addressing implicit and explicit bias and building the competency “practicing inclusion,” requires a multifaceted approach that includes building community. The best D&I training in the world does little to nothing without executive support, accountability, and brave spaces for people to connect, speak, question, without fear of being called a racist or being judged. Spaces where diverse individuals can build something together called understanding, empathy, and respect for each other. These spaces extend beyond the classroom.
Instead of vowing that this will never happen again Starbucks can absolutely do something that is within their control. Institute a mentoring program for baristas and other employees. Have them mentor someone at their store affected by racist stereotypes in ways that invites harm upon their being? Host Coffee Klatches for inclusion at the store once a week. How about making practicing inclusion a competency employees are held accountable for? Consider using the stores as brave spaces for connection? Starbucks is in a unique position to do this. You have meeting spaces all over the country. What can Starbucks do next; be the change you want to see.
