(Akron) - Goodyear has backed off a bit on what its employees can, and can't wear to work. It is now okay for Goodyear employees to wear clothing items in support of police and law enforcement.
Earlier this week, when word came out about Goodyear's policy about employees wearing political attire, it was said that items such as "Blue Lives Matter" - a support of police - were not allowed. The CEO of the Akron-based tiremaker now says employees can wear items supporting police.
In the statement, posted on Twitter, CEO Rich Kramer said:
Dear Goodyear Customers:
By now, you are aware of a visual from our Topeka factory that has been circulating in the media, and I want to personally clear the record on what you are seeing and hearing. The slide in question was created by a plant employee to try to explain what is acceptable to wear in the workplace. The slide was not approved or distributed by Goodyear Corporate or anyone outside of that facility.
I deeply regret the impression it has created and want to clarify Goodyear’s position.
First, to be clear, Goodyear does not endorse any political organization, party or candidate. We have a longstanding corporate policy that asks associates to refrain from workplace expressions in support of any candidate or political party.
Second, Goodyear strongly supports our law enforcement partners and deeply appreciates all they do to put their lives on the line each and every day for our communities. We have proudly supplied tires to police and fire personnel for more than 100 years and that relationship is foundational to our company.
We have clarified our policy to make it clear associates can express support for law enforcement through apparel at Goodyear facilities.
The core of our company is our people and our culture. Goodyear has always supported both law enforcement and equal justice. We will always do so.
I want to thank each and every one of our customers for your partnership during these unprecedented times.
Rich Kramer, Chairman, CEO & President
A TV station in Kansas showed a picture taken of a slide presentation to employees in Topeka, saying what was unacceptable. The slide said "Blue Lives Matter," "All Lives Matter," and "MAGA" were unacceptable. President Donald Trump called for a boycott of Goodyear after learning MAGA items could not be worn by employees at work.
Kramer in his statement, said that slide was not approved by corporate, and he regrets the impression it left.
(Photo courtesy Goodyear)
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