I had an opportunity to share my experience in The Huffington Post Canada: Dear Salesgirl, Are You Discriminating Against Me Because I Am Plus Sized Or Black? There is always more than one side to a story:
'I am the Salesgirl in question. I apologize for my statement, "I don't dress people like you." it was never intended to be hurtful or racist. It was meant to be honest. I have never dressed a model. I rarely even am forced to choose an outfit for a customer. The customer is always the person to pick the item--I am only a facilitator and work to fast track the shopping process and hopefully make it more enjoyable.
I felt like I did not have the appropriate skill level to pick an outfit for such an important event in your life. I did not have enough experience to confidently say what I had chosen for you to try on would be the perfect outfit and did not know what the perfect outfit would be.
I also apologize for my lack of empathy. I explained myself poorly. I immediately felt like the situation was beyond my control and I did nothing to make amends'.
Sincerely,
Salesgirl
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'I am the Salesgirl in question. I apologize for my statement, "I don't dress people like you." it was never intended to be hurtful or racist. It was meant to be honest. I have never dressed a model. I rarely even am forced to choose an outfit for a customer. The customer is always the person to pick the item--I am only a facilitator and work to fast track the shopping process and hopefully make it more enjoyable.
I felt like I did not have the appropriate skill level to pick an outfit for such an important event in your life. I did not have enough experience to confidently say what I had chosen for you to try on would be the perfect outfit and did not know what the perfect outfit would be.
I also apologize for my lack of empathy. I explained myself poorly. I immediately felt like the situation was beyond my control and I did nothing to make amends'.
Sincerely,
Salesgirl
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Thanks friends for your comments on my Facebook, Twitter and my article in The Huffington Post Canada. I thought it was fair to share the Salesgirls response to my article. When I read her message I was surprised. The Salesgirl and her company had been following my work after the incident occurred. I found it interesting that only after my article was published did the Salesgirl respond. She had help from the company writing the message. However, I believe that her last sentence was honest and from the heart.
I did not mention to the Salesgirl when she was helping me that I was a "Model". Who does that? Haha. Plus I didn't think that was important to mention at all. I only said, I had an interview on Global TV and wanted to look professional. I trusted her recommendations for me.
It was only after the incident occurred that the Manager seemed worried and asked, "Why are you going on Global TV? Discussing what? What do you do?" That is when I shared more about myself. During this time, the Salesgirl had already left the floor.
I was shocked, confused and hurt when the Salesgirl said, "I don't dress people like you". Then she repeated it again. I was not certain what exactly she meant. So, I gave her an opportunity to explain herself but she rudely walked away and stayed in the backroom. Why not defend yourself if it was really that simple? There would be no misunderstandings if she explained herself when given the chance not after my article was published.
With that said, I don't know what she has been through. I wish her the best. I appreciate her sharing and acknowledging the situation.
Its up to everyone to make their own conclusion from this story. I encourage more dialogue and understanding. I know that some people will not want to accept this, identify with me or my experience. I know what I felt during the incident and I also know that this matter had nothing to do with my "title" or "clothes".
We all have a story. I have had many great opportunities in my life and career. Pulling the "race card" is not my-style nor does it benefit me. I enjoy sharing and discussing various topics. Diverse people have played a role in my success and mentoring me. I'm a hard working woman and try to let my work speak for its self. Respect, understanding and tolerance are vital.
I did not mention to the Salesgirl when she was helping me that I was a "Model". Who does that? Haha. Plus I didn't think that was important to mention at all. I only said, I had an interview on Global TV and wanted to look professional. I trusted her recommendations for me.
It was only after the incident occurred that the Manager seemed worried and asked, "Why are you going on Global TV? Discussing what? What do you do?" That is when I shared more about myself. During this time, the Salesgirl had already left the floor.
I was shocked, confused and hurt when the Salesgirl said, "I don't dress people like you". Then she repeated it again. I was not certain what exactly she meant. So, I gave her an opportunity to explain herself but she rudely walked away and stayed in the backroom. Why not defend yourself if it was really that simple? There would be no misunderstandings if she explained herself when given the chance not after my article was published.
With that said, I don't know what she has been through. I wish her the best. I appreciate her sharing and acknowledging the situation.
Its up to everyone to make their own conclusion from this story. I encourage more dialogue and understanding. I know that some people will not want to accept this, identify with me or my experience. I know what I felt during the incident and I also know that this matter had nothing to do with my "title" or "clothes".
We all have a story. I have had many great opportunities in my life and career. Pulling the "race card" is not my-style nor does it benefit me. I enjoy sharing and discussing various topics. Diverse people have played a role in my success and mentoring me. I'm a hard working woman and try to let my work speak for its self. Respect, understanding and tolerance are vital.
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