URBANA, Ill. (Chambana Today) — Unionized Starbucks baristas in Urbana joined a growing nationwide unfair labor practice strike Thursday, taking part in the Red Cup Rebellion as workers across the country escalated pressure on the coffee giant during the busy holiday season.
Baristas picketed from 8 to 11 a.m. outside the Starbucks location at 102 N. Vine St., drawing attention to their demands for a fair union contract and an end to what Workers United describes as ongoing union-busting practices by the company. The Urbana action was part of a coordinated, open-ended strike that began on Red Cup Day, Nov. 13, and has continued to expand week by week.
The Urbana store was among dozens nationwide to join the strike on Thursday, placing the city alongside locations in Illinois and across more than 20 states. Organizers said the participation of Urbana workers underscores the growing presence of unionized Starbucks stores in college towns and mid-sized cities, where baristas say concerns about pay, staffing and scheduling are especially acute.
The strike coincided with increasing political support for union baristas. More than 180 state and local elected officials from across the country, including several state attorneys general, sent a letter urging Starbucks to resolve outstanding labor complaints and return to the bargaining table in good faith.
Workers United officials said the Red Cup Rebellion is intended to highlight baristas’ role in powering Starbucks’ profits during its most lucrative season. Supporters have pledged not to cross picket lines or purchase Starbucks products until a contract is reached.
In Urbana, baristas and supporters said the strike was about more than a single store, framing their participation as part of a broader movement for workplace dignity and a voice on the job. Additional actions and pickets are expected to continue locally and nationwide as the strike remains ongoing.