Texas Starbucks Customer Blanca Lopez Handed 'Illegal' Joke on Cup | Hispanic Mom Fumes Over Offensive Message
Key Takeaways
- A Hispanic customer received a Starbucks cup labeled with an “illegal” joke, perceived as a racist attack .
- The incident occurred at a Target-owned Starbucks in Irving, Texas, on June 23, 2025 .
- Community activists planned protests but canceled due to low turnout; both Starbucks and Target are investigating .
- The customer demands the barista’s termination, citing zero-tolerance policies for discrimination .
What Happened at the Irving Starbucks?
Blanca Lopez ordered a horchata latte at a Starbucks inside a Target store in Irving, Texas, on June 23. Instead of a name, her cup lid had a handwritten joke: “What do you call a sick eagle? Illegal.” Her daughters spotted the message first, which confused Lopez initially. She later interpreted it as calling Hispanic people “sick, illegal individuals” who don’t belong in the U.S. The joke felt personal because Lopez has friends and relatives deported for undocumented status .
Why the Joke Cut Deep
For Lopez, the joke wasn’t just insensitive—it echoed real trauma. She referenced recent ICE raids in Dallas-Fort Worth (84 arrests in January 2025) and media narratives framing immigrants as criminals. As she told CBS News: “Why did they call me that? Why are they asking if I have papers or no papers?” . Her reaction underscores how immigration debates amplify everyday slights.
Corporate Apologies and Investigations
After complaining, Lopez received an on-the-spot apology from the store manager, who promised a “team meeting” to prevent repeats. Starbucks stated it has a “zero-tolerance policy for discriminatory behavior” and is investigating. Target echoed: “We want everyone treated with courtesy and respect; we apologize and are addressing this.” Neither confirmed if the employee would be fired, though Lopez insists termination is warranted .
Protest Plans That Fizzled
Carlos Quintanilla, a Dallas activist with Accion America, organized a June 28 protest at the store. He livestreamed his visit after zero attendees showed, calling the joke “disturbing” amid anti-immigrant rhetoric. Target staff interrupted his stream, asking him to leave. Quintanilla later urged a “silent protest,” citing organizing challenges .
Broader Immigration Tensions
This incident collides with national policy shifts. President Trump’s “Project Homecoming” offers $1,000 and flights for self-deportation. ICE’s Dallas-Fort Worth arrests and plans to triple agency size intensify fears in communities like Irving. Lopez’s demand for accountability reflects wider calls for dignity amid polarized debates .
What Happens Next?
Lopez kept the cup as evidence and awaits formal responses from Starbucks and Target. Key unresolved questions:
- Will the barista be fired?
- How will corporations enforce anti-bias training?
- Will advocates like Quintanilla reignite protests?
Both companies face pressure to act decisively to avoid brand damage .
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What joke was written on Blanca Lopez’s Starbucks cup?
A: “What do you call a sick eagle? Illegal.”
Q: Where did the incident occur?
A: At a Starbucks inside a Target in Irving, Texas .
Q: What did Starbucks and Target say?
A: Both apologized and are investigating but haven’t detailed employee consequences .
Q: Was there a protest?
A: Activist Carlos Quintanilla planned one for June 28, but no attendees joined .
Q: What does Lopez want?
A: The barista fired and corporations to enforce anti-discrimination policies .