Is black rifle coffee political?

Is Black Rifle Coffee Political?

Black Rifle Coffee Company (BRCC) has been a major player in the specialty coffee industry since its founding in 2014. Known for its high-quality, small-batch coffee blends, the company has built a loyal following among coffee connoisseurs. However, BRCC has also been embroiled in controversy due to its strong political leanings and apparent alignment with right-wing values. In this article, we’ll explore whether or not Black Rifle Coffee Company is indeed political and delve into the company’s stances on various issues.

What Does It Mean to Be Political?

Before we dive into BRCC’s politics, it’s essential to define what it means to be political. In the context of businesses, being political typically involves taking a stance or engaging in activities that can be seen as partisan, biasing, or ideological. This can include statements on social media, product labels, or even donations to political organizations.

History of Black Rifle Coffee

Founded by Evan Hafer, a former Army sniper, and Mat Best, a former Army Green Beret, Black Rifle Coffee Company was born out of a passion for great coffee and a desire to challenge the status quo in the specialty coffee industry. Hafer and Best have made it clear that their goal is to create a sense of community among like-minded individuals who share their values and beliefs.

Politically Charged Content and Messaging

BRCC is often criticized for its polarizing content and messaging. The company has been accused of promoting conservative ideology through its social media platforms and products. Some notable examples include:

• Military-themed products: BRCC has released several military-themed products, such as beer cozies, t-shirts, and hats, emblazoned with anti-liberal slogans like "We’re Not the Thought Police" and "Burn It Down (DC)." These products have sparked debate about the company’s tolerance for differing opinions.

• Anti-Democratic sentiment: BRCC co-founder Mat Best has expressed disdain for Democratic Party leaders, calling them " communists" and stating that they are "trying to take away our freedoms."

• Gun culture endorsements: BRCC has publicly endorsed gun culture, proclaiming itself "The People’s Coffee Company" and partnering with organizations that advocate for gun rights.

Controversies and Backlash

Black Rifle Coffee Company’s political leanings have attracted criticism from both the right and the left. Critics have accused the company of:

• Islamophobia: BRCC has been accused of promoting Islamophobic views, particularly through their products and social media posts. The company has denied these claims, stating that they only seek to promote free speech.

• Hate speech: Some critics have charged that BRCC’s messages and products amount to hate speech, as they use divisive language and symbols that may be perceived as anti-liberal or anti-PC.

• Divisive business practices: The company’s controversial political stance has led to divisions within the specialty coffee community, with some retailers choosing not to carry BRCC products due to its divisive rhetoric.

Black Rifle Coffee’s Response to Critics

In response to these criticisms, BRCC co-founders have issued statements and social media posts expressing their commitment to free speech and their opposition to liberal ideologies. Hafer and Best have claimed that the company is being targeted for its conservative views, asserting that they are not biased or discriminatory.

Conclusions

So, is Black Rifle Coffee Company political? The answer is an unequivocal yes. Through its products, messaging, and partnerships, the company has made it clear that it is a hub of conservative ideology. While Hafer and Best argue that their company is merely seeking to promote free speech, many critics view their stances as divisive, hurtful, and bigoted.

The Implications

The controversy surrounding BRCC has significant implications for the specialty coffee industry, the broader cultural landscape, and the political divide:

In conclusion, Black Rifle Coffee Company’s political stance is undeniably a key aspect of its brand identity and public image. While some critics argue that the company is simply exercising its right to free speech, many more see its stances as divisive, hurtful, and potentially discriminatory.