I’m a white guy from a fairly non-diverse city. I was at a grocery store today where a cashier opened up their line to serve me and, I thought, the person behind me. As they were serving me, though, they put up their lane closed sign right in front of the black man behind me. The buy was just trying to purchase some tuna, bread, and peanut butter.
The cashier basically decided to serve me, a middle class white man, but refused to serve the black man behind me. I was so shocked that I didn’t say anything. It is possible that I misunderstood the situation but it seemed so blatant.
What should I have done in this situation? Should I have spoken up? Would that have just been more embarrassing for the man who was being discriminated against?
Honestly, I’m still just in shock to see someone treated so poorly when they were simply trying to buy food for themselves. I recognize that means that I’m sheltered but I also feel like I should be able to use my unearned privilege to help others who are being discriminated against.
“Excuse me, but he was in line.”
“I’m sorry, but we’re closing this register, as I have a legally mandated 12-minute break.”
“Oh, sorry, I thought you were just being racist.”
“So when my breaktime hits, if there are ethnic minorities in line, that cancels out my legally protected right to have a break? Where’d you hear this man, because first off, that sounds racist, and secondly, the union is very clear on how breaks are taken. By having to explain this to you, I’ve already lost two minutes of my breaktime. Thank you. It’s notl like this job is stressful and I’m sure you know better how our store operates.”
“Hey man, that was your decision to make. I was just telling you how it appeared. Enjoy your break (or don’t, I’m not your boss).”
“So you’re calling me a racist, for no reason? Cool. Here’s your change mister, now I’ve really got to go or I don’t get to eat or piss all day. Deepest apologies.”
"Yeah, I don’t think I’ll be shopping again at a place that doesn’t let their employees piss. You should quit for a place that treats you better. Also, I hope one day you can overcome your racism…”
“Mam, we have scheduled breaks. Mine started three minutes ago, when I closed the register. You are preventing me from having a break, with unfounded accusations of racism. I can show you the break schedule. Here. It says 10.15, ‘Jack’ s break.’ It’s now 10.18. I have to get back at a scheduled time as well. I sincerely hope you will take your business elsewhere.”
“Sir, this is a Wendy’s.”