Publix has doubled down on its decision to send an 18-year-old employee home for wearing a mask with “BLM” on it.
Company policy strictly prohibits any messaging not associated with the chain’s brand.
Earlier this month, Quinton Desamours wrote “BLM” on his paper mask before heading to work at the Publix in Lehigh Acres, Florida.
“Today @Publix sent me, a Publix employee, home for having ‘BLM’ written on my mask. The assistant store manager told me he doesn’t know if the company is ‘Pro or Con.’ I will no longer be working for publix. Stand for something or you’ll fall for anything! #blacklivesmatterFL,” he tweeted that same day.
Publix spokeswoman Maria Brous spoke to NBC News.
“At Publix, we reject racism and believe diversity makes our company — and our community — better,” Brous said. “Our focus remains on ensuring a welcoming work and shopping environment for all associates and customers. Our uniform policy does not permit non-Publix messaging on clothing or accessories.”
A few weeks back, Starbucks was called out for not allowing their employees to wear masks of badges supporting the movement — but they did allow staff to wear items supporting the LGBTQ+ community.
They have since changed their stance.