The death of George Floyd is a game-changer and lead the world to speak against racism. There was a global protest against anti-racism and from South Africa to Europe to the Asia Pacific – they have reached hundreds of countries.
After the murder of George Floyd by Minnesota police officers, brands and businesses across the consumer spectrum have also expressed support for the #BlackLivesMatter movement on social media.
Furthermore, top executives at the biggest chains in America are speaking out in support of protests following the death of George Floyd. Meanwhile, the protests are sparking internal discussions about racism.
CEOs at chains encompassing Chick-fil-A, McDonald’s, and Taco Bell have launched statements recently supporting protests, with some white executives admitting that they cannot understand the injustices Black people face.
Below are a few food chains which gave their two cents on George Floyd’s death:
1. McDonald’s
They were one of us:
Trayvon Martin. Michael Brown. Alton Sterling. Botham Jean. Atatiana Jefferson. Ahmaud Arbery. George Floyd. pic.twitter.com/s1UhP5vncv
— McDonald's (@McDonalds) June 3, 2020
2. Taco Bell
Read the full letter from our CEO, Mark King.
We're muting our channels for the rest of the week to reflect, learn, and listen.
— Taco Bell (@tacobell) June 2, 2020
3. Starbucks
— Starbucks Coffee (@Starbucks) June 1, 2020
4. Burger King
we stand with you in support of equality and justice for black lives and we will use our platform, our position, and our voice to do so.
when it comes to people’s lives, there’s only one way to have it. without discrimination.
— Burger King (@BurgerKing) June 2, 2020
5. Popeyes Chicken
We are nothing without Black lives. ⁰⁰There's no room for injustice. We commit to strengthening every facet of our culture and policies to foster an environment where equality for Black people is a priority. We'll use our platform to support this movement. #BlackLivesMatter
— Popeyes Chicken (@PopeyesChicken) June 2, 2020
6. Chipotle
7. Subway
Our doors are open to all, and we stand against racial injustice of any kind. There are a lot of important voices speaking out right now that need to be heard, so we're stepping away from social media to ensure that happens. #blackouttuesday pic.twitter.com/TB9jr1D5nv
— Subway® (@SUBWAY) June 2, 2020
8. KFC
We support our Black team members, partners, and customers. We are committed to using our voice to speak up but more importantly, using this time to listen, learn, and act to create positive social change. We have to do more. We will do more. pic.twitter.com/hUKzKTfN0p
— KFC (@kfc) June 4, 2020
9. Wendy’s
Our voice would be nothing without Black culture. Right now, a lot of people are hurting because of blatant racism against Black people. Their voices need to be heard. Period. #BlackLivesMatter
— Wendy's (@Wendys) June 3, 2020
10. Ben and Jerry’s
The murder of George Floyd was the result of inhumane police brutality that is perpetuated by a culture of white supremacy. https://t.co/YppGJKHkyN pic.twitter.com/YABzgQMf69
— Ben & Jerry's (@benandjerrys) June 2, 2020
When it comes to restaurant chains, several have followed suit while others have remained silent. The above list is by no means a comprehensive one. Still, the mentioned national chains have publicly stated their support for the cause, taken steps to support their employees who are protesting and are opening up opportunities for dialogue about racial discrimination.
According to research, African American people are dying at twice the rate of other communities, and black business owners and workers have been disproportionately affected while being left out to dry.
However, the question that remains at the end is, are these food chains implementing what they’re saying? What have the chains been doing to take care of their workers? Just last week, workers at a McDonald’s, in Oakland, went on strike after they were allegedly told to wear masks made out of dog diapers while four workers had tested positive for COVID-19 in the days before.
George Floyd’s murder has caused a stir on social media, and according to news, the sacked officers are Thomas Lane, J Alexander Kueng, and Tou Thao. They all face charges of aiding and abetting second-degree murder and aiding and abetting second-degree manslaughter.
Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.