Ben & Jerry's Escalates Lawsuit Against Unilever Over Censorship
Ben & Jerry's has filed an amended lawsuit against its parent company Unilever, alleging suppression of a social policy statement that mentioned President Donald Trump.
The complaint claims that Unilever's ice cream chief, Peter ter Kulve, unilaterally prohibited the release of the statement on the eve of Trump's inauguration in 2017. Ter Kulve reportedly cited Unilever board member Nelson Peltz's acquaintanceship with Trump as a reason for the ban.
Ben & Jerry's argues that this action violates its commitment to social activism and undermines its reputation as a brand associated with progressive values. The company further alleges that Unilever has resisted payments totaling $25 million for social justice initiatives as part of a previous settlement agreement.
The amended complaint also references Unilever's plans to divest its ice cream business to streamline operations. Ben & Jerry's emphasizes its intention to maintain its independent board and social mission within the spun-off entity.
Unilever has yet to respond to requests for comment. The lawsuit highlights the growing tensions between corporations and consumers over the intersection of politics and business.