1 /5 Itzel Soto: I had a very upsetting experience at my local Marshalls store that I feel needs to be addressed.
My sister, who has Williams Syndrome, sat briefly on one of the display chairs in the home décor section because she needed a moment to rest. An employee approached and yelled at her to get off the chair. When I walked over to understand what was happening, my sister looked frightened. I apologized and explained that we didn’t realize she wasn’t allowed to sit there. The employee responded that it was “dangerous,” but her tone was extremely hostile and unkind. After she walked away, my sister began crying because she was so shaken from this random stranger yelling at her.
I completely understand that stores have policies about display furniture. However, there is never a reason to speak harshly—especially to someone who is visibly vulnerable and simply needed to sit for a moment. Kindness and professionalism cost nothing, and this interaction showed neither.
I hope management provides better training to Nancy on how to approach situations with empathy and respect, particularly when interacting with customers who may have disabilities.
