Why Are People Boycotting Starbucks In India? 10 Things To Know

The pending Supreme Court decision on legalising same-sex marriage has created anticipation and concern within the LGBTQ community. In the midst of this, Starbucks recently unveiled an advertisement that has stirred up controversy and garnered significant attention.

The new Starbucks advertisement featured a trans woman meeting her family and aims to promote understanding and acceptance of transgender people.

However, enraged some netizens who took to social media to express their displeasure and "Boycott Starbucks" began trending on Twitter. Meanwhile, other netizens took to Twitter to show their support for the advertisement and the trans community.

Here's all you need to know about the Starbucks advertisement.

10 things to know about Starbucks Advertisement:

1. Starbucks, the popular coffee chain, is at the centre of a controversy in India over its recent advertisement titled "ItStartsWithYourName." The ad has triggered strong reactions and threats of boycott from some netizens.
2. The ">advertisement narrates the story of a husband and wife who anxiously anticipate the arrival of their child, Arpita, who has transitioned and changed her name from Arpit. The father initially appears upset, but eventually comes to accept his child's decision.
3. The ad concludes with the Starbucks logo and the hashtag “ItStartsWithYourName,” emphasising that a person's name defines who they are, regardless of gender identity. The company expressed love and acceptance for individuals embracing their true selves.
4. The advertisement arrives during a time when the issue of legal recognition for same-sex marriage is unresolved in India's supreme court. This has created anticipation and worry among the LGBTQ+ community.
5. Many have praised the Starbucks advertisement for its message of acceptance and inclusion. They view it as a positive step toward supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and their rights.
6. On the other hand, some critics argue that the ad promotes a liberal agenda. They claim that Starbucks prioritises social issues like LGBTQ+ rights and same-sex marriage over its main product—coffee. Calls for a boycott have emerged from this perspective.
7. Starbucks has reaffirmed its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. The company stands by its support for individuals embracing their true selves, regardless of gender identity.
8. Twitter users have expressed their opinions on both sides of the controversy. One user accused Starbucks of pushing a "woke" agenda in India, while another claimed that Starbucks was promoting harmful activities.
9. Many supporters of Starbucks have left positive comments, applauding the company's support for LGBTQI+ individuals. They argue that opponents should focus on real-life issues and accept diversity. They also highlight the historical representation of transgender individuals in the ad.
10. Supporters of the Starbucks advertisement argued that banning it would be discriminatory. They believe that embracing diversity and inclusion is essential for a more inclusive society.

Suggested Reading: Bombay HC Directs Educational Institutions To Allow Trans Persons For Name And Gender Change