After two race claims have come against the Barney NY high end department store, Barneys’ CEO has spoken out, hit the jump for more !
The Barneys NY department store has undergone heavy scrutiny after two young, black, shoppers have filed race claims against the popular store and the city. The story has gained the support of community leaders and civil rights activists including the president of the Brooklyn quarters of Rev. Al. Sharpton’s National Action Network, Kristen John Foy. Foy has met with the CEO of Barneys Mark Lee, who offers his deepest regrets and apologies:
“We are conducting a thorough review of our practices and procedures as they relate to these matters to ensure that they reflect our continued commitment to fairness and equality,” stated Lee.
The criticism came after 19 year old, Trayvon Christian of Queens, stated on Monday that earlier this year on April 29, he had been detained by NYPD officers, after attempting to purchase a $350 Ferragamo Belt with his own money.
A second incident occurred in February, with 21 year old shopper and Brooklyn native, Kayla Phillips who reported her negative shopping experience Wednesday after hearing Trayvon Christian’s story. Phillips claims that she was harassed and detained after attempting to buy a Celine handbag for $2,500. Phillips was questioned by officials after using a temporary debit card and providing proper identification.
