Social activism has been a hallmark of the Ben & Jerry’s brand. Now it’s defending its social mission in court to preserve its ability to speak out as its sale looms.

The allegations come as part of a lawsuit aimed at blocking Unilever’s alleged efforts to dismantle Ben & Jerry’s independent board and end its social activism.

Ben & Jerry's, the ice cream brand, has accused its parent company Unilever (LON:ULVR) of trying to silence its criticism of U.S. President Donald Trump. This development comes as Unilever is preparing to spin off the ice cream brand later this year.

Ben & Jerry's accused its parent Unilever of demanding its silence toward U.S. President Donald Trump, as it prepares to spin off the ice cream brand later this year. In a Thursday night filing in Manhattan federal court,