New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani and U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders joined striking Starbucks baristas in Brooklyn on Monday, the same day the city announced a nearly $38 million labor settlement with the coffee chain.
Their appearance on the picket line came as workers continue a nationwide push for stronger protections, stable scheduling, and a union contract.
The settlement requires Starbucks to pay almost $38.9 million to more than 15,000 workers across New York City after investigators found widespread violations of scheduling laws.
The company is expected to compensate eligible employees for the past three years and comply with stricter labor rules moving forward.
In Brooklyn, Mamdani and Sanders stood with striking workers, offering vocal support for their demands. Mamdani said the workers were not asking for luxury but for fairness and dignity on the job.
Sanders criticized Starbucks leadership for uneven treatment between executives and frontline staff.
For many baristas, the settlement is a significant victory, but the strike continues as workers push for stronger staffing, predictable hours, and a negotiated contract.
Union organizers say the momentum shows no sign of slowing, especially with high-profile political figures joining the movement.
For Mamdani, who is preparing to take office as New York City’s mayor, the appearance signals that labor issues will remain at the center of his political agenda.
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