General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: The Starbuck's restroom policy sucks. Here's why it exists, though. [View all]MineralMan
(146,371 posts)However, that's another matter, really. Clearly the people who were not allowed use of the facilities were clearly discriminated against by an officious manager on account of race. For me, frankly, an establishment that restricts use of its toilets is one I do not patronize, simply on ethical grounds.
I do not, for example, patronize Starbucks. Instead, I patronize a local coffee company's locations, where restrooms are not locked and where I can use those facilities before ordering, if I choose or need to. I notice things like that, and make my choices based on the way the business operates.
I live in an urban area. We have similar problems here. I'm familiar with the problems, but am also adamant about the need for public toilets. When people need a toilet in a city, one should be available nearby, wherever you are. That is not the case, sadly.
I'm a older (70s) white man who normally dresses in reasonably nice clothing. When I ask to use a restroom, it's vanishingly rare that I cannot do so. For many people, that is not the case. It's one of those situations where my privilege is clear. That should not be so.