Almost a year has passed since people around the nation—including CRLS students—began boycotting Starbucks for its alleged support of Israel. Back in 2023, a viral claim emerged that Starbucks had publicly supported Israel’s actions during the war in Gaza. The origins of this claim were connected to the belief that Howard Schultz, former CEO of Starbucks, made pro-Israel statements in the past. Schultz is also Jewish, which made some individuals feel that the company might have contributed to or supported Israeli military efforts. Social media amplified a call for consumer action, eventually leading to the beginning of the boycott against Starbucks.
The historical background behind the conflict between Palestine and Israel stretches back to the late 1800s. Throughout the years, violence continued to erupt between the two countries, shutting down any attempts of peace efforts. As of today, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues, as both sides fight for control over the territory.
Right across the Rindge building on Broadway is Starbucks and Broadway Marketplace, where many students spend their lunchtime buying snacks, drinks, or a quick meal. With the boycott still in progress and Starbucks being only a few hundred feet away from the school building, is there still active participation from CRLS students? While many students remain consistent with this boycott, is there a chance that maybe some students aren’t aware of the boycott? Could the boycott against Starbucks have lost its momentum, or has the movement continued to quietly influence public discussion? Starbucks’s close proximity to the school seems to present a challenge to the boycott’s effectiveness, as the convenience of the store might influence student choices.
Gelila Hailemelekot ’28 told the Register Forum, “As someone who doesn’t get Starbucks and would rather get Dunkin’, considering the price difference as well, I believe that we should continue boycotting Starbucks—even with its close distance. By purchasing Starbucks, we are supporting the genocide of thousands.” Gelila expresses her strong stance against Starbucks, aligning with students who believe that continuing the boycott is necessary. Additionally, she mentions the infamous price inflation Starbucks has on their drinks, posing a negative reputation on people and especially students. Jonathan Lin ’26 also agrees with Starbucks’ price controversy, commenting, “Starbucks is overpriced for the food they serve, and they change the policy where free water and ice only comes with a purchase. I think that some people that were seen in Starbucks were only really after the free water”.
Similarly, Georgia Foley ’28 is skeptical of Starbucks’s involvement with Israel. She says, “It’s kind of suspicious because what I heard was that the US funds for Israel’s healthcare. Who is Starbucks working for? Is Starbucks independent?” Well, to answer her questions, all of Starbucks’ locations are corporately owned, and Georgia’s curiosity and doubts about Starbucks’ intentions could be evidence of how the boycott continues to run. While the Starbucks boycott at CRLS remains, the activism has evidently influenced students’ choices and awareness as consumers.
This article also appears in our March 2025 print edition.
