Dallas, Texas, January 30, 2026
White Rhino Coffee in Dallas, Texas is embroiled in controversy due to its policy granting first responder discounts to ICE agents. Following the resignation of Margot Stacy, the store manager, along with about 11 employees, public sentiment has been divided. Some customers support the employee stance while others threaten to boycott the coffee chain. The CEO has issued clarifications, stating that the discount is reserved for local first responders, asserting the company’s commitment to an apolitical and inclusive environment.
White Rhino Coffee Faces Backlash Over ICE Discount Policy
Employee Resignations Spark Community Debate
Dallas, Texas – Local coffee chain White Rhino Coffee has found itself at the center of a controversy that has prompted both employee resignations and public outcry. The issue revolves around the company’s policy regarding first responder discounts for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, igniting a wider discussion on the role of ICE in Texas communities and the responsibilities businesses hold in contentious matters.
The events unfolded in late January 2026 when Margot Stacy, the manager of White Rhino’s downtown Dallas location, publicly resigned in protest against the company’s decision to offer first responder discounts to ICE agents. Her resignation post quickly gained traction, leading to the departure of approximately 11 employees from various locations. Social media witnessed a surge of reactions; while some customers supported the employees’ stance, others threatened to boycott the coffee chain altogether.
Company’s Response to Controversy
In light of the uproar, White Rhino Coffee’s CEO, Sara Escamilla, took steps to clarify the company’s discount policy. She emphasized that the first responder discount is strictly reserved for on-duty, uniformed local first responders, including police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians (EMTs). Federal officers, including ICE agents, do not qualify for the discount. Escamilla further stressed the company’s commitment to remaining apolitical and fostering an inclusive environment, asserting that harassment and intimidation would not be tolerated.
The Context of the Incident
This incident is reflective of a broader national conversation regarding the role and activities of ICE agents in local communities. Tensions surrounding ICE operations have escalated in recent years, particularly following the ambush of local police officers in July 2025 at the Prairieland ICE facility in Alvarado, Texas. Such events have raised questions about public safety and the role of federal authorities within the state. The controversy surrounding White Rhino Coffee is indicative of a growing divide among community members regarding the federal agency’s actions and the impact on local safety.
Rebuilding Trust
As the controversy continues to develop, White Rhino Coffee is prioritizing efforts to rebuild trust with both its staff and customers. The company aims to reaffirm its commitment to providing a welcoming and safe environment for all patrons amidst the evolving dialogue in the community.
Key Takeaways
- The incident has led to substantial discussions among customers and employees about the company’s policies and its implications.
- The clarification from White Rhino Coffee emphasizes strict adherence to recognizing local first responders while maintaining a neutral stance on federal topics.
- This situation reflects broader issues related to ICE’s role and operations in Texas and has implications for community relations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What led to the employee resignations at White Rhino Coffee?
Employees resigned in protest over the company’s policy of offering first responder discounts to ICE agents, which they opposed.
What is White Rhino Coffee’s stance on first responder discounts?
The company clarified that its first responder discount is intended exclusively for on-duty, uniformed local first responders, including police officers, firefighters, and EMTs.
How has the public reacted to the incident?
The incident has sparked widespread discussions on social media, with some customers expressing support for the employees’ stance, while others have threatened boycotts of the coffee chain.
What is the broader context of this controversy?
The incident is part of a larger national conversation regarding the presence and activities of ICE agents in local communities, highlighted by events such as the July 2025 ambush at the Prairieland ICE facility in Alvarado, Texas.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Employee Resignations | Approximately 11 employees resigned in protest over the company’s policy regarding ICE agents. |
| Company’s Clarification | White Rhino Coffee clarified that its first responder discount is intended exclusively for on-duty, uniformed local first responders, excluding federal officers like ICE agents. |
| Public Reaction | The incident has led to widespread discussions on social media, with some customers expressing support for the employees’ stance, while others have threatened boycotts of the coffee chain. |
| Broader Context | The controversy is part of a larger national conversation regarding the presence and activities of ICE agents in local communities, highlighted by events such as the July 2025 ambush at the Prairieland ICE facility in Alvarado, Texas. |
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
