Starbucks | #SorryNotSorry

A short time ago, while browsing on Twitter, I came across the following coupon:

For a split-second, I was ready to screen shot this coupon and take it to my friendly Nu'uanu Starbucks when I realized it was probably fake. In fact, this coupon is a viral satire along with the following letter:

Both these elements were designed in response to what some feel is racial hypersensitivity. For those living under a rock, a few days ago, two black men entered a Philadelphia Starbucks, didn't order anything and appeared to be loitering. The manager called the cops and the men were arrested. Story here.

It's hard to comprehend the incessant racial infighting that happens on the mainland. In Hawaii, we celebrate and poke fun at each other because we are comfortable in our own skin:

"Eh Russel, dis buggah giving me heat." -Room Service, Rap Reiplinger (1978)

So do "Black Lives Matter"? Yes. But no more than Hawaiian, Portuguese, Chinese, Filipino, Japanese, Irish (ect., etc., etc.,) Lives. And as a Hawaiian, I will testify that we've had our own share of injustice since Western contact in 1778.

All I'm saying is that people need to take a chill pill on both sides of the spectrum. As a result of this hogwash, Starbucks will be closing on May 29 for "Racial Bias Training"and I will have to forego my Nitro Cold Brew with Sweet Cream. As a result, I think most folks can agree with the following graphic:

I'd estimate that Republican fringe groups (e.g. HIRA Action) are responsible for the bad reputation of conservatives in Hawaii. It's unfortunate that a few crazy individuals are given so much attention; but normally they shout the loudest. I honestly believe that the majority of us are more alike than we are different; after all, the saying goes, "Everybody in Hawaii is related somehow." Even if it's not a blood relation, we are connected through business, sports, music/art, and of course, the ubiquitous, "What school you went?" connection.

I'll argue that conservative principles are better than liberal ones but not to the extent that my views become more important than the people it is intended to help. So while I'd say it's tacky to sit in a Starbucks and not order anything, I don't think anyone should be arrested for it. But again, I have faith that our local people are better than that.

Happy (belated) Aloha Friday!