When it comes to shopping for Christmas gifts, some say it’s fun and gets them in the holiday spirit while others find the act aggravating. However, for two Latina women in the J.C. Penney’s Jefferson Mall of Louisville Kentucky, shopping for the holidays was neither fun nor slightly annoying: it was a time of racial harassment.
An unnamed white woman went on a rant — a rampant with racially toned statements — after she believed that one of the women cut in front of her in the line. The woman was videotaped saying “just because you come from a different country… it don’t make you nobody! Go back to wherever the f*** you come from, lady.”
When one of the women she was harassing responded to her statements with a dismissive nod, the racist ranter responded with “That’s okay, speak English. You’re in America. If you don’t know it, learn it. And I’m sorry that I’m that way, but you all need to realize you’re not the only ones around here.” In the video, someone in the background can be heard giving approval of the woman’s racist statements to which she responded: “Thank you!”
Jefferson Mall released a statement about the disgusting situation via their facebook page:
“We are aware of the video posted online today from one of the department stores. Jefferson Mall strives to create a comfortable and convenient experience for all of our guests and we absolutely do not condone this type of behavior.”
The Mayor of Louisville also commented on the racist remarks made, saying “I am sad and disappointed to see conduct like this when one person so dehumanizes another human being. This is not who we are, and on behalf of our community, I apologize to the two women who were treated in such a horrible way. I hope this video prompts many discussions among families as they gather for the holidays this week — discussions about basic human values, dignity, and respect. As a country of immigrants, we must understand that we only move forward through peace, acceptance and embracing those who are different from us. These are basic American values protected in our Constitution, values embraced in this welcoming, compassionate community.”
The Courier-Journal reported that Jefferson County Attorney Mike O’Connell says that if the two victims of the ranter’s hate decide to take legal action then the altercation could lead to criminal charges being brought upon the ranter.
The Washington Post reported that J.C. Penney is “asking for the community’s help in identifying the two women who were targeted for such remarks, as we would like to reimburse them for their entire purchase and offer a sincere apology for their experience.”
Jefferson Mall states that once identified, the woman responsible for the discriminatory remarks will be banned from the mall.
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