Lucia V

Discriminatory behavior and unprofessional staff

I am writing to formally lodge a complaint regarding the recurring treatment my partner and I receive from a specific staff member at your Howard Centre branch. On multiple occasions, we have been met with an attitude of visible disgust and hostility from an employee who is short in stature, with short hair and a stouter build. While we initially tried to overlook the lack of professional courtesy, a recent incident has made it clear that this behavior is rooted in prejudice. I recently overheard this specific employee engaging in a conversation with another customer where she explicitly stated that "being more masculine as a female is wrong." As a person who presents masculinely and is in a sapphic relationship—facts this employee is aware of—it is clear that her consistent hostility toward us is a direct result of these personal biases. Absolute Pets should be a welcoming space for all pet owners. However, being subjected to "disgust" and hearing derogatory comments regarding gender expression and ***ual orientation creates a hostile and discriminatory environment. This behavior is a direct violation of the professional standards and inclusive values one would expect from your brand. I am requesting that this matter be investigated and addressed through proper sensitivity training or internal disciplinary action. We would like to continue supporting the Howard Centre branch, but we cannot do so while a staff member is allowed to foster an atmosphere of intolerance.