Missouri’s Attorney General sues Starbucks over alleged discriminatory diversity practices, sparking debate on corporate inclusivity measures.
At a Glance
- Missouri AG Andrew Bailey files lawsuit against Starbucks for alleged discrimination in DEI policies
- Lawsuit claims Starbucks’ diversity programs violate federal and state laws by excluding white men
- Starbucks denies allegations, stating commitment to inclusivity for all employees
- Case filed amid national debate on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion policies in corporate America
Missouri AG Takes on Starbucks’ DEI Practices
Missouri’s Republican Attorney General Andrew Bailey has filed a lawsuit against coffee giant Starbucks, alleging systemic discrimination through its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri, claims that Starbucks engages in “systemic racial, sexual, and sexual orientation discrimination” through its DEI initiatives implemented since 2020.
The lawsuit examines Starbucks’ diversity programs launched following the murder of George Floyd, arguing that they violate both federal and state laws by excluding white men from certain opportunities. Bailey’s office contends that these practices impact consumers with higher prices and longer wait times, while also violating the Missouri Human Rights Act.
Allegations of Discriminatory Practices
According to the lawsuit, Starbucks allegedly ties executive bonuses to racial and gender hiring quotas and provides exclusive training to preferred groups. The complaint points to demographic shifts in Starbucks’ workforce from 2020 to 2024, highlighting an increase in female employees and a decrease in white employees.
“As Attorney General, I have a moral and legal obligation to protect Missourians from a company that actively engages in systemic race and sex discrimination,” Attorney General Andrew Bailey said.
Bailey’s lawsuit seeks to end the alleged discrimination, rehire affected employees, and pay damages. The Attorney General draws parallels between this case and the 2023 Supreme Court ruling on race and college admissions, arguing that race should not be a factor in hiring or promotions.
Starbucks Defends Its Policies
Starbucks vehemently denies the allegations, maintaining that its DEI policies are legally sound and “inclusive.” The company, which operates nearly 200 locations in Missouri and employs 211,000 people in the U.S., stands firm on its commitment to equitable employment practices.
The company further defended its position, stating, “We are deeply committed to creating opportunity for every single one of our partners (employees). Our programs and benefits are open to everyone and lawful.”
This lawsuit comes amid a broader national debate on the role of diversity and inclusion in shaping corporate and governmental environments. Some major companies have ended their DEI initiatives in response to similar criticisms. The case against Starbucks is not isolated; Bailey previously filed a similar complaint against IBM in 2024, which is ongoing.
