The state of Washington is known for a lot of things: coffee, rain, weed, and a law permitting women to be topless in public. It seems only natural that at least a couple of these things would somehow converge at some point.
You've either seen or heard of bikini baristas, or women serving up coffee dressed in, well, not a lot. However, despite their state's laws, some residents in Everett, Washington, have decided they aren't big fans of seeing a bikini barista standing behind the counter at their local café. So, by unanimous vote from the Everett City Council last month, two ordinances were passed to ban restaurant employees from both wearing bikinis and exposing bare skin—which constitutes as bare buttocks, bare midriffs and bare shoulders—while on the clock.
Accordingly, the bikini baristas of Everett, Washington, are none-too-pleased, and have decided to sue the town for their right to espresso themselves—and their cleavage. (Turns out coffee is more than just a good way perk up in the morning. Here's what it can do for your workout.) The Seattle Times reported that bikini baristas are suing the town of Everett on the ground that the ordinances "violate their constitutional rights to free expression and the right to privacy."
Best New Swimsuits:
Lawyers for the plaintiffs, which include seven baristas and an owner of a chain of bikini coffee stands, released a statement on Monday regarding the suit, saying that the ordinances were unconstitutional.
“The Ordinances, on their face violate the First Amendment to the United States Constitution; are unconstitutionally vague, as applied and in violation of the due process guarantee of the Fourteenth Amendment," they said. "The ordinances also deprive the Baristas of their Fifth and Fourteenth Amendment rights and discriminate against women.”
Barista Liberty Ziska said that the issue for her is that of her right to wear what she wants.
“I choose my own clothing at work, and for me, the message I send is freedom,” she said. “Millions of women fought for our rights and right to vote, and it’s my right to wear what I want. It’s my right as a person.”
According to the article, issues regarding bikini baristas have been plaguing Everett for years. The city came under fire back in 2009 for an influx of illegal activity stemming from the bikini stands, including prostitution and indecent exposure allegations.
Looks like cappuccinos in Everett are going to get a little less steamy, at least for now.
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