Starbucks solid red holiday cups have sparked controversy for what's not on them this year – no cheerful words, not even a wintry design – sparking charges that the company is trying to completely whitewash Christmas.
The company is pushing back with an artsy, politically-correct explanation.
Jeffrey Fields, Starbucks "vice president of design and content," said in a company
statement that the newly unveiled holiday cups – a tradition for the company since 1997 – has a simple two-toned ombré design, with a bright poppy color on top that turns into a darker cranberry below.
Gone are any words or symbols signifying the Christmas season as in the past, many pointed out on social media.
Fields said the cup's design was a more inclusive way to help people enjoy the season.
"In the past, we have told stories with our holiday cups designs," he said. "This year we wanted to usher in the holidays with a purity of design that welcomes all of our stories. Starbucks has become a place of sanctuary during the holidays. We're embracing the simplicity and the quietness of it. It's more open way to usher in the holiday."
Raheem Kassam of
Breitbart London said the cups are actually a broadside shot at Christmas.
"You can see what's going on here," said Kassam. "More open? You mean, you're trying not to 'offend' anyone. Frankly, the only thing that can redeem them from this whitewashing of Christmas is to print Bible verses on their cups next year..."
"Subliminally, (people are) being told/reminded that this time of the year is no longer about Christmas. It's about the color red, or something. It's a 'holiday season.' Don't say Merry Christmas. It's offensive. And no, I'm not 'reading too much into it.' This is happening. And it's as disgusting as an Eggnog Latte," said Kassam.
One person found another reason to complain about the cups.
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