#indivisible

Yesterday I read a daring message from Howard Schultz, the CEO of the Starbucks. Taking out a full-page ad in the Sunday New York Times, Schultz and Starbucks are trying to spark a national conversation on America’s future and asking politicians to put citizenship before partisanship. I agree with Schultz that America is broken, but still believe that it can be the greatest. 

Across the country, millions of Americans are out of work. Many more are working tirelessly yet still unable to adequately care for their families. Our veterans are not being welcomed home with the level of support they deserve. Meanwhile, in our nation’s capital, our elected leaders are continuing to put ideology over real solutions… The deficits this country must reconcile are much more than financial, and our inability to solve our own problems is sapping our national spirit. We are better than this. America’s history has showed that we have accomplished extraordinary things when we act collectively, with courage, creativity, and generosity of spirit - especially during trying times.

Starbucks, a company that stood up and provides healthcare benefits for all of its baristas, is increasing local community service and helping finance small-business job creation with Create Jobs for USA. They are trying to do their part.

I’m most struck with the example that Schultz is setting for business leaders. Actually, the message to future business leaders. He leads a company that shows responsibility and compassion for its partners (employees), shareholders, customers, and the community. Each one of those are equally important to the company’s mission and the Starbucks’ experience. This is not the first time Schultz has stood up, with his return to Starbucks a couple years back and a message last year. He is the type of path-bending business leader that will help take us off of our current trajectory. One business setting a new course, can turn into many businesses (both big and small) and set the tone for the country. This is the business leader I strive to be.

I’m joining the #indivisible conversation. My view of America is one where businesses are true, innovative members of the community.

Thanks for sending the message. 

-tvl

Source: starbucks.com