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I Experienced Racism

I went to the Mexican barber shop by my house a few months ago. I used to like going to the Mexican Barber shops because they take their time and give you a good hair cut for a fair price. I like the way they line everything up. The atmosphere is usually friendly and I a appreciate the culture. At 10 am I entered. I asked if I could get a hair cut. There was only one guy in the shop working. He directed me to the chair then said wait a minute. He stepped outside. I waited and waited. After over 5 minutes, I stepped out and their he was smoking a cigarette. He just looked through me. This is not the first time I have been denied service at a Mexican barber shop. It has happened at two other places on my street. My neighborhood is not Mexican. It is changing but it is still mostly Italian, Polish,and Irish. I got the message. I left. I love my long grey hair. Thank you for helping me that day.

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PoetryNEmotion · F

Why did he treat you that way? What colour is your skin? Not that it should matter. Did you speak to him? Did you tell him you will find another shop?

ianR0ckwell · M

@PoetryNEmotion I am white. I contacted the owner who is a nice guy. He apologized. The guy no longer works there. I gave them a horrible review but took it down because I did not want the shop owner to suffer due to this employee. Before the incident , I had recommended people to go his shop. I was honest with the owner that I would not go back. If and when I get my next hair cut, It will probably be in the suburbs. I actually like my long wavy grey hair. I feel like a viking. My wife thinks I look homeless but that is okay.

PoetryNEmotion · F

@ianR0ckwell You must do what you think is right. Perhaps you should have confronted the barber? Made it clear that this behaviour is intolerable. I wonder how many whites actually experience racism like this? I think other races are far more treated poorly than the whites. I hate when people yell the race card. It seems to be popular. Stand up for your race. Confront prejudice when it is safe to do so. And do complain to those to whom it matters when it occurs. You can make a difference. As for your hair? Wear it in whatever style makes you feel comfortable. I know grey hair tends to be thin as it is less than a regular colour in texture. Don't let it look scraggly, man.

ianR0ckwell · M

My hair is thick.. wavy and soft...It actually looks good.. my wife is a badge bunny.. she likes the military look..not the aging rock star thing..