California coffee chain faces backlash after pledge to remove Pride flags

• 01Philz Coffee announced plans to remove Pride flags from its stores as part of an effort to create 'a more consistent, inclusive experience across all our stores, including removing a variety of flags and other decor,' according to CEO Mahesh Sadarangani in a statement to SFGate.
• 02Philz operates 17 locations in San Francisco alone.
• 03A petition opposing the flag removal gathered more than 4,000 signatures by Friday morning, citing the 'deep meaning and value' the flags hold for staff and visitors as symbols of 'safe and welcoming spaces.'
• 04The petition states: 'Removing these flags risks alienating a core group of team members and loyal customers who see Philz not just as a coffee shop, but as a place where they are embraced and celebrated for who they are.'
• 05A former Philz barista commented on the petition: 'Philz has made their branding and fortune off of supporting the LGBTQ community. This is a slap in the face to all of your employees.'
• 06The San Francisco Chronicle reported that Pride decorations remained in place at Philz locations in downtown San Francisco and the Castro neighborhood, with one Castro location displaying a sign reading 'Welcome to the Queerest coffee shop in town. Period.'
• 07Philz has historically operated an annual fundraiser to support LGBTQ+ organizations.
• 08In February, the Trump administration removed a Pride flag from the Stonewall national monument.

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Philz Coffee announced it would remove Pride flags from its stores to create a more consistent experience across locations, prompting a petition signed by over 4,000 people opposing the decision. The petition states that removing the flags risks alienating LGBTQ+ employees and customers who viewed Philz as a welcoming space, with some supporters arguing the company built its reputation on supporting the LGBTQ+ community. The company said it remains committed to serving as an ally to the LGBTQ+ community but did not announce when the changes would take effect.