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.

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.

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.