Coffee company giant Starbucks CEO and founder Howard Schultz recently took his active participation to racial discussion in California African American Museum. Inviting over his "partners" from the range of the baristas, managers, and other employees, Schultz discusses the issues surrounding racial issues and leaving an hour of open mic portion for the employees to share their experiences, whether it be a childhood experience or something they had realized. The CEO held his first racial discussion conference in Seattle, his hometown. It was later on followed by Oakland, California, St. Louis, New York and Los Angeles.
The Truth That Needs To Be Discussed, Why Race Is An Important Issue
Unlike other company leaders, Schultz is very brave on discussing this topic. Considering that a considerable percentage of his employees are racial minorities, the Starbucks founder feels involved with this issue. He said that he felt "very restless, very concerned" after the Ferguson issue. Also, in a report by Time, they wrote that "Sales will rise and fall with national mood, tanking quickly during events like the New York City police protests." Inc. writes.
According to Chief Executive, Schultz also said, "Whether we want to admit it or not, we all have unconscious biases," In a letter he sent last December to his employees, he furtherly discussed what he has learned and experienced within those race discussions. Encouraging them to be involved, he said that all of them should not be a bystander. "The Forum was at times uncomfortable, yet overall it was enlightening. It provided many of us, myself included, with a deeper understanding around issues of race and the realities facing our country." Schultz wrote.
When asked on what advice on life he can give, he said, "Don't settle! Embrace a dream - and keep dreaming. Don't be a bystander. Take it personally." With these talks being held bravely by one of the biggest leaders in corporate business, do you think the others should follow too? Tell us your thoughts below.
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