An “Arab bakery” in San Francisco, California has declared a policy of not serving anyone who is armed – including police officers.
Reem’s California turned away a policeman who was in uniform, prompting the San Francisco Police Officers Association to post on social media that Reem’s has a “bigoted policy” of “NO COPS ALLOWED”.
The bakery chain later issued a statement on Instagram, saying that their policy is aimed at creating a safe space: “In a time of increasing gun violence – particularly impacting people of color, youth, and queer people – we believe that maintaining a strict policy of prohibiting guns in our restaurant keeps us safer,” they wrote.
“At Reem’s, we aim to provide a space where people can eat delicious Arab food and work together to strengthen our community, without fear of violence or harassment.”
The bakery is currently closed, but says it “can”t wait to reopen our doors very soon and provide the sanctuary space you all deserve.”