Ben & Jerry’s amended its censorship lawsuit against parent company Unilever, accusing it of blocking critical statements about Donald Trump.
Allegations of Suppressing Free Speech
The Vermont-based ice cream brand alleged that Unilever’s ice cream division president, Peter ter Kulve, barred the release of a social media post. The post referenced abortion, climate change, minimum wage, and universal healthcare, highlighting concerns under Trump’s administration.
Ter Kulve allegedly deemed mentioning Trump “too taboo” for the brand despite Ben & Jerry’s decades-long history of progressive activism. The lawsuit emphasized that Ben & Jerry’s identity is built on advocating for “Peace, Love, and Ice Cream.”
Claims of Silencing Social Activism
The lawsuit also accused Unilever of censoring Ben & Jerry’s on multiple occasions, preventing statements supporting Palestinian refugees and peace in Israel. It alleged Unilever even threatened to dissolve the company’s board when it sought to call for a ceasefire and peace.
The company’s legal filing emphasized that Unilever failed to honor its contractual commitment to respect Ben & Jerry’s Independent Board and its social mission.
Standing by Company Values
Ben & Jerry’s decision to halt sales in occupied Palestinian territories in 2021 triggered the ongoing dispute. The company stated that operating in the region conflicted with its core values.
“As a values-driven company, we have consistently supported human rights and economic and social justice,” Ben & Jerry’s declared on its website. The lawsuit underscores the brand’s commitment to its principles and accuses Unilever of undermining those efforts.
