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Over 1,200 Starbucks workers across roughly 100 stores walked off the job this week, protesting a newly implemented dress code policy they say was imposed without union input. Baristas argue that the requirement to wear solid black tops has led to confusion, lost hours, and disciplinary actions—all while more pressing workplace issues like understaffing and wages remain unresolved. Starbucks maintains that the change is minor and that most stores continue operating as usual, accusing the union of using the dress code to delay contract negotiations. Workers counter that the policy highlights the company’s failure to prioritize meaningful support for its frontline employees.