Overview

• A TikTok video recorded at a Yucaipa, California Starbucks shows a barista declining to write or print “Charlie Kirk,” calling it a political name.
• Starbucks said there is no policy restricting customers from using Kirk’s name and reported it is working to understand what occurred at the store.
• In a follow-up statement, the company explained most customers use their own names but that employees may ask for a different name if a customer offers a political slogan or offensive phrase.
• Starbucks noted its point-of-sale system blocks certain explicit words, while the use of individual names like Charlie Kirk is permitted.
• The clips drew online backlash and boycott calls, as supporters promoted Kirk’s reported favorite order—Mint Majesty tea with two honeys—and a Change.org petition sought to add it to menus.