2-I truly believe I was treated differently because of the hat I wore, the religion I practice, and the man standing next to me. I've worn that hat silently and peacefully many times. I've never caused a scene, never raised my voice, never asked for anything but dignity. I spent the same green money that anyone else does -- but I left that store feeling like a threat for simply existing.
I am still shaken. I've spent years in leadership roles at SmileDirectClub, Ulta, Redwood Dental, and SVS Vision -- I know how retail protocol is supposed to go. This was not it. This was lazy, rushed, and biased. It's now been over a week, and I still can't shake the fear, the shame, or the helplessness I felt.
And worst of all? This could've been resolved instantly -- if someone had simply watched the video. It will be resolved regardless but I didn't need this inconvenience on my mental health nor finances. On top of that you took the one place I escape from time to time and showed me that the ugliest souls work there, ew. As if the world isn't ugly enough without 9-5 employees acting as bullies that are above the law ... for what a potential of $25/hr on salary basis? If you treated me like a human being and everyone did their jobs this could have been resolved. Shame on you.
This experience has made me feel unsafe, judged, and discarded. It has jeopardized my emotional health, my ability to work in management, and my trust in law enforcement and corporate systems. And for what? Two $20 bows I didn't even know were there?
If you're Muslim, brown, or wear anything showing support for Palestinian lives -- please be careful. You could be profiled, threatened, and criminalized over something as minor as an accident.
This store used to be my escape. Currently it's my nightmare. For now. read more