Religious beliefs spark coffee shop police event cancellation
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A planned “Coffee with a Cop” event in Shoreline, Washington, was canceled after progressive activists objected to the religious beliefs of the coffee shop owner who volunteered to host it.
The community engagement initiative, aimed at strengthening bonds between local law enforcement and residents, was scheduled for March 26 at Pilgrim Coffee, owned by Epic Life Church pastor Keith Carpenter.
The controversy erupted when activists discovered the venue choice and organized opposition. One social media user, Sounder Sam, announced on Facebook: “Dear Shoreline, a pro LGBTQIA2S+ protest will be scheduled in front of Pilgrim Coffeehouse on Wednesday, March 26th from 10am to 11-40! Show up loud and proud!”
NEW: This is an absolute disgrace. City of Shoreline(@ShorelineWAGov) is capitulating to the woke mob and canceling an upcoming "Coffee with a Cop" event at Pilgrim Coffee. A small group of far-left activists threatened to disrupt the gathering because they claim to be offended… https://t.co/HiP3rAMKxm pic.twitter.com/I5Xh56Dl4Y
— Jonathan Choe (@choeshow) March 25, 2025
In response to the backlash, city officials withdrew their plans. They released a statement on Facebook saying, “It was neither the departments, nor the City’s, intent to make any community member feel unwelcome based on the selection of the event venue and the values that the venue may or may not hold. When planning future events, we will be more intentional with our venue selection.”
The statement continued: “Again, we are reaffirming our commitment to creating a thriving city that is Welcoming to All. Part of how we can do that is by listening to our community, taking feedback, be it negative or positive, and coming out better and stronger. We listen. We see you. We hear you, Shoreline.”
Carpenter addressed the situation in social media comments, defending his reputation and highlighting his community service work. He noted that while he holds traditional biblical views on marriage, his establishment welcomes everyone. He extended an olive branch to critics, offering personal conversations over complimentary coffee.
This morning’s Coffee with a Cop was filled with great conversations and even better company! Huge thanks to Just Love Coffee Café for being such gracious hosts.
These moments matter—our team is always working to build trust and connect with those we’re honored to protect each… pic.twitter.com/h3bLNZ1FfV
— Mt. Juliet Police (@MtJulietPolice) March 22, 2025
Social media responses celebrated the cancellation. Commenters expressed support for future events at what they termed more inclusive locations. One user wrote, “I hope to attend an event at an inclusive venue in the future. Thank you for listening!” while another commented, “Thank you for hearing the public on this! Please want coffee with cops, but we want it at places where everyone is welcome!”
Speaking to radio host Jason Rantz of KTTH 770, Carpenter acknowledged feeling discriminated against based on his religious beliefs. He emphasized that his coffee shop serves all customers equally, providing exceptional service regardless of identity.
A city representative provided a convoluted explanation for the cancellation, avoiding direct reference to Carpenter’s religious beliefs. The spokesperson indicated future events would be held on city property to avoid perceived political complications.
The Shoreline Police Department reportedly apologized to Carpenter privately, though Chief Tommy Collins did not respond to media inquiries about the incident.
