Many protests have commenced after President Donald Trump announced his temporary travel ban order on seven Muslim countries. Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz was one of whom spoke out against the ban.

  When Trump signed off his executive order barring immigrants from entering the United States, Schultz took matters into his own hands. He wrote a letter announcing his plan to hire 10,000 refugees over the next five years in over 75 countries. He stated the goal of this was to “welcome and seek opportunities for those fleeing war, violence, persecution and discrimination”  (The Washington Post). Allison Park (11) stated, “It is good that people with authority are making a statement on their views of the issue. It inspires others to express their opinion and use their authority to help change the world.”

  This was not the first time Schultz had addressed his societal views by using his CEO position. Starbucks had been well-known for their advocacy for the LGBT community and marriage equality. Additionally, the company has been credited for their programs in hiring young, minority workers, and veterans. Sebastian Bonilla (11) stated, “I think the fact that Starbucks expresses their views on issues in society is important. It lets customers know that the company shares the same beliefs that others do.”

  Though Schultz’s choice was received with worry from workers who feared for their jobs, he reassured them and stated that the goal of the company was to “inspire and nurture the human spirit, one person, one cup and one neighborhood at a time” regardless of the location.