DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse at 4 South Tunnel Road, Asheville, North Carolina.

I was in DSW (Asheville) today doing a little shopping on my day off. The entire time I was in the store the manager named (John) followed me around as if I were going to steal from them. Whenever I walked into a different aisle he’d be right there looking at me. He didn’t even try to cover it up or make it seem like he was doing some work. He just stood around watching what I was picking up or trying on. He never greeted me. He even watched me as I walked towards the door to leave and he completely stop talking to this white female, then he came out looked at my hands and went back to talking with a white female. So, I asked him his name because I think he needs to be reported. I should never feel uncomfortable in any establishment when I am a paying customer. I am a customer service representative/Pharmacy Technician at a local Pharmacy while pursuing a Degree at a local University. I do not need to steal, I can conclude that I felt singled out compared to the other females that were shopping. John treated me like I was a criminal. I was a black woman wearing skinny jeans, a burgundy top, flats and carrying a LB bag with my dress for graduation to perfectly match the shoes. I don’t think I looked like a person that steals, but I do think he assumed I would because I’m black. This is a conflicting issue that needs to be addressed. John should never make anyone feel as if they are suspected as thieves. I’m pissed I was treated like that. I am not accusing John as being racist/prejudice/whatever, but I think he needs to be retrained and/or a refresher on company SOP in customer service. This would give him the training he needs to provide customers of all ethnicity with excellent service. John must make all customers feel welcomed, as for me he did not. I will not return to DSW and I will make sure my friends and family know of this unfortunate situation.