The World is up in arms against new U.S. president elect, Donald Trump and his tyrannical ways of governance. However, its not just the general populace, but even the corporate world which has decided to not “Stand Silent” in the face of a new order which has put a ban on people travelling to America from seven Muslim-majority nations.
In retort against the ban, Global coffee giant Starbucks has announced that it will hire 10,000 refugees over the next five years in 75 countries across the world that it does business in, including India. In a letter to employees that has been posted on the company’s website, Starbucks chairman and chief executive, Howard Schultz has said, “I write to you today with deep concern, a heavy heart and a resolute promise. I write to you today with deep concern, a heavy heart and a resolute promise. We are living in an unprecedented time, one in which we are witness to the conscience of our country, and the promise of the American Dream, being called into question.”
Trump’s executive order has imposed a minimum 90-day ban on immigrants and refugees from seven Muslim-majority countries which include Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. Where refugees from Syria have been barred indefinitely.
Schultz said that Starbucks had been in contact with employees affected by the new ban. The Starbucks chief announced, “We are doubling down on our commitment by working with our equity market employees as well as joint venture and licensed market partners in a concerted effort to welcome and seek opportunities for those fleeing war, violence, persecution and discrimination.”
He also outlined Starbucks’ plans to ensure healthcare coverage to its employees in the wake of Mr. Trump’s plans to scrap Obamacare. He said, “We are in business to inspire and nurture the human spirit, one person, one cup and one neighborhood at a time — whether that neighborhood is in a Red State or a Blue State; a Christian country or a Muslim country; a divided nation or a united nation. That will not change. You have my word on that.” What do they say about leading by example? We wish Mr Schultz was a presidential candidate.
