The Florida Education Association (FEA) and several of its local affiliates have issued a resolution expressing support for Starbucks Workers United (SWU) and baristas striking at unionized Starbucks locations in Florida and across the United States. The resolution highlights the ongoing collective actions by workers at more than 400 unionized Starbucks stores nationwide, including strikes aimed at securing fair wages, safe working conditions, predictable scheduling, and good-faith bargaining from company management.
According to the FEA, SWU has documented a range of unfair labor practices by Starbucks. These include retaliation against union supporters, refusal to bargain with unions, making unilateral changes to working conditions, and withholding benefits from employees at unionized stores. The National Labor Relations Board has reportedly found merit in multiple charges against Starbucks related to illegal anti-union actions such as discrimination, surveillance of workers, and failure to negotiate as required by law.
The resolution states: “The right of workers to organize, bargain collectively, and engage in concerted action, including strike activity, is a fundamental right recognized under the National Labor Relations Act and is central to the strength of all labor unions.” It further notes that public support from other unions can strengthen community pressure on employers and reinforce shared values around equity and worker justice.
The FEA calls on Starbucks to end all anti-union activities immediately, reinstate terminated workers, comply with NLRB rulings, and begin good-faith negotiations with all unionized stores. The organization also encourages its members and allies to support unionized Starbucks stores by amplifying worker voices and participating in solidarity actions when appropriate.
The resolution concludes: “We reaffirm the principle that an injury to one is an injury to all, and that the fight of Starbucks baristas is a fight for the future of worker rights, fair workplaces, and the health of the American labor movement.”
The FEA represents over 123,000 teachers and education staff professionals in Florida. The statement was signed by numerous local education associations across the state. More information about SWU’s efforts can be found at sbworkersunited.org.
