It's a case of alleged segregation concerning beauty products.
A California woman named Essie Grundy feels she was discriminated against at her local Walmart on North Perris Blvd. NBC 4 South California reports that on January 12th, Grundy was in the store's beauty section when she noticed all of the hair and skin products used by African Americans were locked behind glass, while the others more commonly used by people of other races were not.
"It was something that I couldn't go in and feel. When I purchased something, I couldn't reach out and get it from her after she took it from behind the glass. She had to walk it to the counter and gave it directly to the cash register and then I had to pay for it. And then I was able to touch it," Grundy told reporters at a news conference Friday.
The mother of five says she complained to an employee who also agreed with her but maintained he was just sticking to the store's policy. Grundy said the whole ordeal made her feel like a criminal and she felt the items were "segregated."
Attorney Gloria Allred, notorious for taking on high profile cases is representing Grundy in a racial discrimination suit against the chain. It is not clear how much they are suing for.
This isn't the first time someone has commented on the matter at the chain store. Many instances can be found on social media. Walmart says it doesn't tolerate discrimination. A spokesman said in part, "We're sensitive to this situation and like other retailers, that some products such as electronics, automotive, cosmetics, and other personal care products are subject to additional security."
In case you're wondering, what items started the whole ordeal-- a bottle of lotion and a $0.48 comb.
Source: nbclosangeles.com
