One of Starbucks' selling points is that the chain regularly releases new and inventive drinks for its customers. From Starbucks' wildly popular Unicorn Frappucino to its magical Mermaid Frappucino, there's always an option for customers to switch things up. On Monday, Starbucks announced its latest creations will be available from June 13 to June 19. So, what is Starbucks' rainbow drink line?
According to a press release from Starbucks, the company has teamed up with Lady Gaga to create a line of rainbow drinks aptly called Cups of Kindness. The line will benefit the movement to support youth mental wellness and anti-bullying campaigns by donating 25 cents from each Cup of Kindness beverages sold to the Born This Way Foundation. The foundation, which was launched by Gaga and her mother Cynthia Germanotta in 2011, is committed to "supporting the wellness of young people and empowering them to create a kinder and braver world," according to the foundation's website. In an amazing effort, Starbucks has made a commitment to donate at least $250,000 to the Born This Way Foundation.
In the press release from Starbucks, Gaga said:
We’re healthier and happier when we live our lives with compassion and our communities are stronger when we treat one another with generosity and respect. Born This Way Foundation and I are so excited to partner with Starbucks to help inspire positivity and love through the Cups of Kindness collection.
Although the press release didn't specifically name the LGBTQ community in the announcement, the Cups of Kindness line definitely has LGBTQ people in mind. Not only is June Pride Month, but Gaga has been a long time supporter of the LGBTQ community. Gaga's 2011 hit "Born This Way" is often cited as an anthem for LGBTQ acceptance and pride. Oh, and there's the whole rainbow thing. Need I say more?
As for the four drinks themselves, they're all dairy-free, which is great news for those who are vegan or lactose intolerant. Each drink offers refreshing and fruity flavors paired with coconut milk. To get you ready for Tuesday's release, here's a primer on each drink from the Cups of Kindness line, according to Starbucks.
New Matcha Lemonade Drink
This vibrant green drink is made with finely ground Teavana® matcha green tea, combined with crisp lemonade, then shaken with ice to create a refreshingly sweet, delicious drink.
Violet Drink
Sweet blackberries and tart hibiscus of Very Berry Hibiscus Starbucks Refreshers Beverage swirl together with creamy coconut milk and ice, creating a refreshing (and violet-hued) sip.
Ombré Pink
A refreshing beverage that combines light, fruity Cool Lime Starbucks Refreshers Beverage with cool, creamy coconut milk and a splash of Teavana Shaken Iced Passion Tango Tea and a lime wheel, for a bright burst of hibiscus notes.
Pink Drink
A light and refreshing beverage that features the sweet strawberry flavors of Strawberry Acai Refreshers with accents of passion fruit and acai combined with coconut milk, and topped with a scoop of strawberries.
It's always exciting when Starbucks releases a new drink or line. Often the new drinks are just for fun, but it looks like this line from Gaga has a specific purpose and level of importance. In a time when tolerance and kindness are under siege, it's important to do all one can to support efforts like Cups of Kindness. Every little bit of effort counts when it comes to supporting the anti-bullying movement.
