from bikini baristas to prostitutes?

I came across this bit of news today and it reminded me of the posts on Feministing not too long ago about “Java Jugs,” the chain of coffee houses in the Pacific Northwest where the baristas wear bikinis to work. It seems that at a similar coffee house in Washington state, some women were accused of prostitution for charging customers to feel their breasts and asses, and to strip down and/or lick whipped cream off of each other.
I think the most interesting thing about this is that none of the customers were charged or arrested in this investigation, which involved undercover officers posing as patrons. Of course the women would be blamed and painted as whores who would do anything to make a buck, even though they are working in a place that is clearly promoting the exploitation of their sexuality to an absurd degree. The cycle of sexism is so powerful, isn’t it? Also, I think it is hilarious that it’s considered perfectly okay for places of business to operate on the concept of flaunting women’s bodies in order to make money, but that the owner said about the controversy that “anyone caught doing anything illegal would be fired.” Thoughts?

Disclaimer: This post was written by a Feministing Community user and does not necessarily reflect the views of any Feministing columnist, editor, or executive director.

Join the Conversation