The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has opened an investigation into Poetica Coffee, a New York City coffee shop chain, after it publicly stated it would have refused service to Democratic Rep. Dan Goldman due to his support for Israel. The Civil Rights Division announced the probe on Monday, citing potential violations of federal anti-discrimination laws that prohibit public accommodations from denying service based on race, religion, or national origin.
Goldman, a Democrat representing New York's 10th District, visited Poetica Coffee in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, on Sunday with his 7-year-old daughter. The shop later posted on social media that it had refunded his purchase and barred him from returning, calling him a 'genocide enabler' and stating it would not serve 'racists, fascists, homophobes, or anyone in between.' The post was later deleted, and the shop's Instagram account appears to have been deactivated.
Goldman responded on social media, saying he had bought a coffee to thank a barista for allowing his daughter to use the restroom. He also noted that he had received donations from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) but had pledged to return them amid a primary challenge from former city Comptroller Brad Lander.
Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon confirmed the investigation, stating that federal law prohibits discrimination in public accommodations. The DOJ will determine if enforcement action is warranted.
The coffee shop's founder, Parviz Mukhamadkulov, faced backlash online, including negative reviews and calls for boycotts. The incident has sparked debate over free speech, business rights, and anti-discrimination laws.