COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX/WTTE) – Some Northstar Cafe employees participated in a “walkout” Saturday morning, boycotting the restaurant. The employees said they wanted to have a worker’s demonstration in protest of recent decisions made by the restaurant’s management.
According to a former employee, the staff collectively decided to suspend Northstar’s 50% off police discount in solidarity with protesters.
"I know it's important and imperative on me to do everything I can to use my whiteness for this movement and to show up and just be a body in support of the black voices that are constantly fighting for better change in this country. And to do just do all that I can and go where I am called and shout as loud as I can,” said Isaac Bean, a former employee.
However, Northstar’s owner decided to not suspend the discount.
Northstar sent ABC 6/FOX 28 this statement:
“Like many other organizations Northstar is struggling to find the best way to go forward supporting everyone and staying true to our values. Our early response to the current unrest around the country was made quickly and emotionally. It involved suspending a long-standing discount for police and firefighters. We regret the decision and have continued the discount program.
Northstar supports social justice for all, inclusion for all and fair and equitable treatment for all. We support our first responders and also support the movement for meaningful social change that’s happening around the country to raise awareness for unfair and unequal treatment. In addition to a donation to Know Your Rights Camp, a foundation whose mission is to advance the liberation and well-being of black and brown communities through education, self-empowerment, mass-mobilization and the creation of new systems that elevate the next generation of change leaders, we are listening to all members of our community to help us determine where we most effectively invest time, money and resources to increase mutual respect, equal treatment, inclusion and stop the killing and violence that arise from lack of these values.”
We understand that there are multiple views and multiple groups involved in trying to find a solution to the problems that has plagued our country and deepened division. We believe the best we can do is help with healing and making changes that make a real difference to bring us together.”