Kroger Employees Aren't Allowed to Wear BLM Masks
The Claim
Kroger employees cannot wear flag masks but they can wear BLM masks.
News posted on
Emerging story
Early in September 2020, a Facebook user claimed that Kroger Corporate said employees cannot wear flag masks but they can wear BLM masks. The user then asked followers to boycott Kroger. The post was shared more than 52,000 times.
Misbar’s Analysis
Misbar’s investigation into this claim found it to be false. The Facebook post is implying that the grocery chain Kroger has banned its employees from wearing face masks decorated with the American flag, but permits workers to wear masks showing support for Black Lives Matter. Black Lives Matter Foundation, Inc. is a global organization whose mission is to eradicate white supremacy and build local power to intervene in violence inflicted on Black communities by the state and vigilantes. In April, 2020, the Kroger stores began requiring employees to wear face masks at work to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
According to a Kroger spokesperson who spoke to Misbar, “The claim on Facebook is not true. Our uniform policies have not changed. Our policy designates that associate uniforms must be clean, professional, and without visible pictures, logos, words or abbreviations, including masks. All associates must wear aprons to show that we are her to serve our customers, communities, and each other.”
The spokesperson added, “We strive to offer a workplace that is uplifting, inclusive and consistent with our values: Integrity, Honesty, Diversity, Inclusion, Safety and Respect. Many associates have expressed a desire to stand together with their communities and show their support through their clothing, facial coverings and accessories. While we are not adjusting our existing dress code, rules or policies, we acknowledge our associates’ feedback and want all to feel supported and heard. To offer a more consistent solution, we produced wristbands and made them available to all associates. Working with our partners, we produced two wristband options, which were distributed in early July: one that represents our commitment to Standing Together with our Black associates, customers and communities against racism in all forms, and the other to serve as a reminder of our values that guide us.”
Kroger is recognized as a leader in diversity and inclusion, ranking #8 on the Omni50 list, which indicates which U.S. corporations are awarding the most and best business to diverse-owned suppliers and vendors.
