Following a woman’s accusation that TJ Maxx was discriminating against her due to her appearance, a subsequent instance involving a job rejection at the store has generated controversy. 23-year-old Ash Putnam, who goes by @ashxobrien on TikTok, talked about how she was turned down for a part-time job at the store because of her body piercings and tattoos.
Putnam claims that after applying for the job, she got an email a few weeks later rejecting her application. Disappointed by the information, she vented her annoyance on TikTok and sparked a discussion on discrimination in employment.
Putnam’s initial grievance was with the impersonality of getting an email rejection instead of a call. Even though this is standard procedure for big businesses, she thought it was disrespectful considering how hard she worked to apply for the position.
When Putnam went to her neighborhood TJ Maxx to personally find out why she was rejected, a staff member informed her that she didn’t have enough experience for the role. Despite the employee’s insistence to the contrary, she suspected that her tattoos had a big influence on the choice.
Putnam stressed that, despite her unhappiness, she wasn’t necessarily in need of the work and was just looking for extra money to help her pay off debt faster. She thought it was unjust, though, that her tattoos appeared to be a deciding factor in her employability.
Putnam has obvious tattoos of images associated with Satanism, including a Leviathan Cross and a goat that symbolizes the god Baphomet. Thousands of TikTok users commented on her post, implying that her tattoos probably affected the decision, even though it’s unclear whether hiring supervisors noticed them when she applied.
Visible tattoos, according to some reviewers, may be viewed as unprofessional, particularly in jobs where employees interact with customers like those at TJ Maxx. Others brought out the difficulty of finding a job for young folks without any prior work experience if employers value experience over potential.
The event brought up more general concerns about how society views physical alterations and employment procedures. Putnam questioned why having a tattoo should prevent someone from getting a job, given that many tattoo bearers are quite skilled workers.
Putnam’s tattoos may not have had a direct impact on her rejection, but the event brings attention to the ongoing discussion over appearance-based discrimination in the workplace. It’s critical to think about how hiring procedures may be more inclusive and equal for all candidates, regardless of appearance, as the conversation continues.
I Was Asked to Leave a Restaurant Due to My Age and Outfit – Here’s How I Responded Days Later
At 72, Everly was told she was “too old” and her attire “inappropriate” for a fashionable restaurant. Her comeback? A Facebook post that went viral, igniting a public outcry for change.
My name is Everly, and even at 72, my zest for new experiences hasn’t waned. It was a sunny Thursday morning when my daughter, Nancy, unexpectedly visited my small garden shop. Her arrival was a surprise, and her proposal even more so. “Mom, let’s check out that new restaurant downtown,” she suggested, her eyes alight with excitement.
Our outfits were modest; I was in my favorite floral blouse and khaki trousers, and Nancy wore jeans and a T-shirt. For us, it wasn’t about how we dressed but about enjoying each other’s company.
We talked about the restaurant as we drove, looking forward to creating a new memory together. However, we were unaware that this simple outing was about to take an unforeseen turn.
Upon entering the restaurant, we were met with modern music and lively chatter. The place was filled with a young, fashion-forward crowd, making our casual clothes stand out. But that didn’t bother us; we were there for the food and the experience.
Just as we were getting seated by the window, a young waiter approached us. Initially courteous, his demeanor shifted upon noticing our attire. “I’m sorry,” he began, his tone now less friendly, “but this place might not be suitable for you.”
“You seem to be too old for our usual clientele,” he added, “and your attire really isn’t appropriate for the ambiance we strive for here.” Nancy’s cheeks flushed with indignation while a sharp sting of rejection hit me—not for who I was, but for my appearance and my age.
His next words were even more cutting. “We would prefer if you left our restaurant so as not to disturb the other guests,” he said bluntly. Before we could react, he signaled for security. The arrival of two burly bodyguards emphasized that he was serious.
The embarrassment was immediate and intense. Around us, I could feel the stares of other patrons, some curious, others indifferent. Nancy gripped my hand tightly, and we left quietly, the waiter’s hurtful words echoing in our ears.
I was heartbroken, feeling a mix of shame and sadness at being judged so harshly in what should have been a welcoming place.
Once outside, Nancy, fueled by anger, took photos of the bodyguards. “We have to expose this, Mom. People need to know about their discriminatory behavior,” she insisted.
That evening, we shared our experience on Facebook, detailing how we were unfairly judged based on our age and appearance. Nancy tagged the restaurant, calling for her friends to spread the word.
The post exploded overnight, shared thousands of times with comments of shock and support flooding in. Many shared similar stories of discrimination, painting a broader picture of ageism and superficial judgments in businesses. The restaurant’s online ratings plummeted as people expressed their displeasure.
Amidst the viral storm, the restaurant owner, Mr. Thompson, contacted me personally. He was apologetic and distressed about the incident. “Mrs. Everly, I’m truly sorry. I was unaware of the incident as it unfolded,” he admitted, his voice laden with regret. “The young waiter is my son, who was managing in my absence.”
He explained his absence due to a business trip and his son’s lack of experience in handling the restaurant. “I would like to invite you back for a complimentary meal and to personally apologize,” he offered earnestly.
I was hesitant but recognized his sincerity. “Mr. Thompson, it’s important that this isn’t just about a free meal. It’s about respect and how people are treated,” I replied, hoping he understood the significance of the issue.
He agreed wholeheartedly. “You’re absolutely right, Mrs. Everly. I’ve discussed this at length with my son. He’s here now and would like to apologize as well. He needs to learn to respect all customers, regardless of age or dress.”
“I’ve made it clear he will not inherit the business until he fully adopts these values,” Mr. Thompson shared, his tone that of a concerned father taking corrective measures.
This conversation with Mr. Thompson was a step in the right direction, showing a commitment to change and understanding. Feeling a mix of validation and contemplation, I ended the call somewhat reassured.
A week later, dressed in my finest silk dress, I returned to the restaurant, ready to face the place that had judged me so unfairly. As I walked in, Mr. Thompson greeted me with genuine warmth, guiding me to a beautifully arranged table.
The waiter, Mr. Thompson’s son, approached with evident nervousness, a stark change from his earlier demeanor. “Mrs. Everly, I am sincerely sorry for how I acted before. It was disrespectful,” he apologized, his remorse apparent.
Following our meal, which was both delicious and meaningful, I updated my Facebook to share the positive turn of events. “Change is achievable,” I wrote, “when we confront injustice and when those at fault are willing to learn and improve.”
Reflecting on the whole experience, I realized the impact of one voice, amplified by social media. It wasn’t just about getting an apology but about affirming that respect should be universal, regardless of age or appearance. This incident taught me the power of standing firm for one’s dignity.
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