Cracker Barrel is facing growing backlash after unveiling a new logo design, breaking from the brand’s traditional imagery that has remained unchanged since 1977. But the controversy extends beyond aesthetics, as conservative activist Robby Starbuck has revealed deeper ties between the restaurant chain and far-left organizations.
Starbuck shared evidence that Cracker Barrel has partnered with the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) for over a decade. He said the company even hosted HRC representatives at its Tennessee headquarters for training sessions on pronoun usage and transgender policies. The HRC is a major proponent of child gender transitions and biological men in women’s spaces—positions widely opposed by conservative Americans.
In his post on X, Starbuck noted that Cracker Barrel has funded “all ages” Pride events in cities like Nashville and River City, raising serious concerns among parents and faith-based communities. He also revealed the company’s partnership with Conexión Américas, a group that supports illegal immigrants and whose leadership has openly criticized President Donald Trump.
Cracker Barrel has embraced diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, including a supplier diversity program and internal Employee Resource Groups based on race and LGBTQ identities. The company has framed these efforts as modernizing moves, though critics argue they signal a shift away from the company’s traditionally conservative customer base.
CEO Julie Felss Masino defended the rebrand, claiming the feedback has been “overwhelmingly positive.” However, many longtime customers see it as a broader reflection of values they no longer recognize in the brand.
Starbuck is urging customers to make their voices heard, providing links to Cracker Barrel’s customer support channels. As with other brands he has exposed, Starbuck is leading a growing pushback against corporations promoting leftist and woke agendas.
