I always find it absolutely HILARIOUS when counter girls or boys have the audacity to tell a customer they can't afford something when they themselves are a customer service rep who cannot afford the items in the store they work at themselves. Truly hysterical
A Black wealthy woman once told me something that stayed with me...I was taking her and her sister shopping in Milan and being the poor college student I was, I was intimidated upon entering the Louis Vuitton and Gucci stores. I expressed my concerns and the woman, who has experienced discrimination in high end American stores, told me that when this snobbery happens you just have to remember: "If you [the salesperson] could afford it, you wouldn't be working here."
When you work in customer service, you have no right to assume a persons ability to afford something. Whether someone is dressed down, dressed up, white, black, latino/a, asian, ANYTHING. This was racist. Stop trying to make excuses for it.
I think this might even go one step further than that. It might just be that she didn't want to sell that particular bag to a black woman, because it might diminish the perceived value / class of the item. If it's not that, then why would she offer to sell her another bag, even if it's cheaper? If this is anything like the Louis Vuitton store in Rome story of Oprah, and a similar brand, then even a cheaper bag will not be that cheap. So I don't think the lady thought she couldn't afford it. I think she didn't want to sell that item to a black woman. And I think that's actually worse.
Hah, I didn't think of that exaplanation. Just crazy. Sure, I get the theft precautions, but surely there must be a way to let someone see a bad without them running off with it.
Oprah might be lying about this. That's undeniably true. However, this thing happening in the world is not something very surprising. It's surprising that it happened to her, but let's be honest: this type of racism is not really a stretch. So it doesn't require a lot of imagination to believe her story. It does however take a stretch of imagination to follow your ridiculous anti-white conspriacy theory. Dude, if you're white and you didn't succeed in America, the land of opportunity, you are a useless human being. Stop blaming it on other races, they didn't have the miles of head start that you had.
Good on Oprah for calling it out, if a black woman worth 2.5 billion dollars is still subjected to racism in our societies then you can only imagine how a poor black woman gets treated. Also, if you're arguing that racism doesn't exist and Oprah is imagining it by making racist comments towards her, maybe you should watch some simpler content.
Of course racism exists and; like murder, theft, and the flu; it will always exists but it's not pervasive nor is it institutional (and for those exceptional "institutional" racist moments that come up we have avenues to combat it). You, Oprah, and I have experienced more non-racist moments in our lives than racist. This is not 1850 or even 1950, it's 2015...it's truly time, high time, that we all quit bellyaching over the R word.
Yes. I agree. Good for Oprha. Good for her calling out that "older white people need to die" as well ! I must have missed that time when she equally called out blacks, who attack whites with racist hatred on a regular basis, since she is such an unbiased supporter of equality. Wait a second. NO. NO. I DID NOT HEAR IT.
Naked Ten Year Old About To Get Head Cuz I Be Swaggin On Yo Main Chick In Some UGG Boots You Mad Asf And there you go again with the personal attacks but, again, it's understandable coming from someone like you...that's all you know how to do. *Lol! It's always the people who have no coherent argument to make who say "there's no point" in replying.* Like I've said before, you can't rebut anything I've said that's why you're doing everything else but that. :-D You really are retarded because I didn't say racism was irrelevant. Follow along if you can: the gist of my argument is that I don't let racism affect my life, it's not all consuming, it's not pervasive, and I've gotten along well in this life despite non-pervasive racism. *And* I'm not going to play a "victim" to make you or anyone else feel better. *Is there something about my preceding statement that is "wrong"?* Please point out what I've said that is "wrong" in either of my posts. And this time, refer to what I've actually said, not something you've made up in your head.
How is she pulling the race card or playing the victim? It's obvious she and her frend were victims of racism. I hate all of you who sweep racism under the rug. "want to end racism, stop talking about it" is such bullshit. I can't believe in this day and age people are still racist and do not take a stand against and instead are excusing it. smfh.
Racism is far worse today than when Oprah first began her talk show. Back then, I distinctly remember, her telling a young black man that was on the wrong path that her success was proof that black people could succeed in life. What was her objective? Let's keep these young black men angry? Heaven forbid they put racism behind them and do something with themselves. I love Bill Cosby!!!!
Damien James I was referring to how the woman said the bag was made for Jennifer Aniston, as if that made it only for wealthy people. Oprah is way wealthier than her.
what is with you people?? I was just reiterating a point made in the video. If you are trying to make a point using Jesus Christ as an example than you should probably refrain from using a term like dickhead in the same comment.
What's wrong with these people is that they didn't really watch the video, or listen to the stories Oprah was telling, so they have no clue what you are referencing. Racist trolling.
@@melodramatic7904 *Can't BeLieve the IDIOT, Christ Edwards!!!!* *I Wonder IF this IDIOT, Christ Edwards, has EVER Wised UP!!!? I Bet that Christ Edwards* *Voted for Trump, in 2016!!! I Bet that Christ Edwards PLans to Vote Trump on Nov. 3rd, 2020!!!*
As a white man, I cringe when I hear these stories. It tells you a lot about what black people experience. But it's important that we all hear these stories. Everyone deserves respect.
As a white man I am sick of white persons feeling guilty about the racism of white people. What is racism about ? Racism has nothing to do with disrespect. Racism is ethnicity, it is the preference of interaction inside your own ethnic group, including procreation. In this sense black people are no 'racist' because a big proportion of them seek to procreate with other races, not only with whites but also with Asiatics o whatever other ( the clash between Blacks and Koreans in L.A. 1992 were the worst riots to the date in US ). For this reason black people are always looking to be accepted. And fighting for it. You would never see Indian, Pakistan, China, Viet-Nam or Japan people claiming, protesting and rioting because of discrimination or any other racial-related issue. Not even Latino people. Just blacks, and it should be said that for decades they have had a privileged social treatment -welfare, children benefits, jobs etc- over all other ethnic groups including whites. If there is an ethnic group asking always to be accepted by other ethnic groups, it wouldn't be neither erratic nor erroneous to call them inferiors. Ethically inferiors. If there is an ethnic group that always feels discriminated, it should be because they consider themselves 'discrimatable' (sorry for the neologism ). In all other races, males are ok with their co-ethnic females. Just for blacks a considerable amount of them are always thirsty for other races females. Racism is also a tool to black people to mate other ethnicity females, specially whites who tend to feel more guilty of the 'evils' of racism. A teenager white girl, or white young lady can easily, as it normal in sex relations, reject a white boy romantic proposals, but it is more complicated for her in the case the boy is black. It could be interpreted as racism from her side. Thus, in this way black boys has an advantage over white boys to take a white girl to the bed. Racism is in fact a tool to facilitate to black boys that white girls open their legs to them. And if you pretend to tell me stories about the abuses of white people against black people in the past ( not mentioning the genocide of whites in Haiti by Jean Jacques Dessalines, today the National Hero of that country ) I suggest you to do a little investigation into the abuses TODAY of white people by black people in South Africa, something that you'll never find in mainstream media. All of this without considering that whites did not invented slavery, but they did invented the abolition of slavery.
@@Daniel_Antonio_Arellano782 I found that my comment is good, and so it is not relevant for me if it is a bit too long. Nobody read all my post.....? It is ok with me, I write quite long essays and do it for very few people, not for the general public who usually doesn't have any interest in reading and is always ignorant and with fears. I consider myself an intellectual, no a politic person. I am not that kind of coward who quivers to death if somebody call him a racist, homophobic etc. I tell my mind on whatever a subject for those who are ready to fight my arguments with other arguments, and do no care about those who can just spit ad hominem insults. Sheers
I accept and believe this was a genuine story, Oprah you're beautiful for sharing this. Much love for those of colors who deal with this, you're more than enough. #worthy
Of course it really happened. She's repeated many of these stories over the years on her show, and interviews, and have gotten multiple apologies - one public one from the Swiss Tourism Board!
I respect your view and the point I'd like to make is this... If you saw me you will see a very fair skinned, modestly dressed, African American woman with glasses. I am not hostile nor the least bit unfriendly. I've gone into stores with a wallet full of money ready to purchase only to be ignored. Most times I leave. Sometimes I stay a minute to observe and notice when people of a different race walk in, they are acknowledged immediately. This happens quite a bit. Every now and then I will say something . I have so many stories to tell that It's ridiculous. Sure, the lady could be a snob. But why would a clerk in a store with goods for sale, refuse to service or help someone? I do not condone violence or throwing things but the blatant racism and disrespect becomes intolerable. especially when it happens on a regular basis to even us non confrontational, hard working, honest black Citizens or ANY race for that matter. I hate racism that comes from ANY race.
A store clerk shouldn’t need to know it’s a famous woman in order to let her buy what she wishes. What the clerk needs to know is that everyone should be treated the same when out shopping. And that is treat each shopper with grace and kindness.
Racism exists around the world and there is a pecking order to the racism. someone is always on the bottom of the list. In most countries there are centuries old biases.
First off there is no such thing as race. For being the "party of science" Democrats are completely ignorant of anything that is actually scientific. Taxonomy (aka the SCIENTIFIC classification of organisms) ends with SPECIES. There is no scientific classification of race. In fact it takes a total of 9 genetic makers to determine the tone of one's skin but it takes 16 generic markers to determine the color of ones eyes including the same markers needed for skin tone. So scientifically speaking someone with different color eyes but the same relative skin tone actually have less in common genetically than two people with different skin tones and the same color eyes. Even within the same family. That's where phenotypes and genotypes play a crucial roll. Race is a government construct and is perpetuated by the very party that supported slavery throughout the entire history of this county aka the DEMOCRATS! Case in point; Democrats think using the term African American is "woke." Here's a woke moment for all you liberals. Lumping an entire section of people based on similar skin tones into a single demographic insinuating that they are all related and some how all hail from the same continent is the epitome of a racial action. Not to mention the very fact that it's segregating them from other Americans based solely on their skin tone is even more egregious. My wife who's skin tone is as black as night finds it absolutely offensive to be called African American and not one Democrat ever stops and think how offensive they are in using that term. Not to mention all the "woke" Democrats that call her an uncle Tom. Racism is the result of ignorance and is only perpetuated by people who believe the lie. There is no "systemic" racism only ignorance by people who THINK they are smart but only know how to regurgitate what they were taught.
Weird. I walked into Yves Saint Laurent to pick up my favorite perfume in Cannes. When we arrived, the sales clerks didn't want to serve mom and I. They noticed I was wearing Native American jewelry (I am Native American) and asked my mother about it. Mom said, "Oh my daughter, she is Native American." And I spoke a greeting in my tribe's language. The French, who are presumed to be hateful to Americans, fell over themselves to actually serve me, and when they realized I was actually going to purchase the perfume, were very gracious. Strange.
It amazes me how people like oprah will talk about racism to bring awareness to it but it never changes. It doesn't change because racist people are not disciplined for what they do. Every racist person should be embarrassed. That shit shouldn't be allowed period.
I like oprah because she has good values and great head on her shoulders..she could could have easily been egotistic specially considering the amount of wealth she has. but make no mistake about it..she worked very hard for every penny she has earned..I really respect this woman and hope she lives a very long healthy life..
It's disgraceful I remember going to buy a car and no one would look after me so I walked out and drove back to the guys and asked them did they like my new car their faces dropped,
Some times you forget the moments of racism you experience because they happen so consistently. This reminded me of one time a friend and I were shopping in SoHo. We watched a white lady walk out of a boutique with bags. We walked up right after her. This store had to buzz people in. The lady behind the counter saw us and tried to hide. She ducked down behind the counter. My friend and were laughing so hard because this woman was literally hiding behind a glass case. Hiding in plan sight. Lmao! We laughed about that all day
It's very shocking to know there are still people out there that don't recognize Oprah. Those people must have been living with their heads inside their asses. Smh.
Just bcz shes a celeb doesnt mean shes God. The sun doesnt rise & set on her. These celebs hv that opinion like well dont u kno who I am. No & dont really care!
You're yet another clueless observer. It's not just about "Oprah." It's that regardless of wealth and status, Blacks are routinely abused and disrespected.
Once I was walking to my car in a store parking lot with my daughter, I buckled her in and walked around to the driver side as I was doing so a elderly woman was opening her door to get out of her car once she seen me she closed her door locked it and clutched her purse. Ugh. Yeah I felt sad and mad all at the same time but as you see from these comments racism is far from ever being over.
If they think you look poor they do the same thing. It happened to me too and I am not black. When I asked what was the price the seller just said expensive. Very humiliating!
No they don't...I have worked in retail...Rich people enter luxury spaces as if they belong , people "pretending" to be rich will enter that space in a different manner and same with "poor" people. As a sales person you develop a sixth sense after a while...Women like Oprah enter those spaces like they belong and any sales person worth his/her salt is able to see that ...but when you are so focus on someone skin tone that your vision of the quality of their outfit, make up and quiet confidence is totally blurred...then that's racism....
Why would you not show a client an item just because you think they won't be able to afford it? Like, what's the worst that can happen? At most they'll just check the bag out and not buy it. If you're already helping an individual client and you're watching them, how are they supposed to try and steal it? (Whether they actually are poor or it's just your racism is a whole other story.)
*Once I entered a store and was stared at and followed by employees although no one spoke to me or offered assistance. As I stood in line to pay I noticed a white man walk in, conceal an item, wait, then he casually walked out without paying. But the gaze of the employees never left me.*
Unless you are a black , brown or a non white, you will never understand what racism feels. It hurts to the core. Years ago when we lived in overseas, my husband worked for a company who flew us a few times in first class from Algeria to Paris. We were the only non whites in the group. The flight attendant would always tell us, " This is first class". He/she assumed we were in the wrong cabin.
I was born and raised in Zurich, Switzerland and coming from a Spanish Family I was terribly bullied and abused as a Child because of my roots. Even as an adult I encountered bullying because of that. I relocated to London 20 years ago and not even ONES I encountered a problem because I am Spanish. Not even ONES. Switzerland is a terrible place!
Yeah , i lived in Swiss 3 years, as Serbian , and discrimination is crazy . I relocated to germany and I never regretted , I never had racist problem in Germany and im 20 years now here .
I worked for the Swiss who owned a restaurant in the Northwest Territories in Canada. One of the staff was blatantly rude to the Inuit customers. You just don't do that in modern day Canada. The Swiss seem to have a mean streak.
I am swiss and I agree with you ( as well as a lot of other swiss citizens) that the restrictions for people who are seeking asylum are not ok and racist. Everbody should be allowed to go wherever they want to go. I also agree on the second point.
+Tara Shaw She has had lots of problems like this in Europe. On her show she talked about shopkeepers refusing her in Paris and Rome, so Zurich should be no surprise.
+Tara Shaw we are not the center of the universe. to other countries Oprah is just some black woman. what Oprah faced pales in comparison to what I and many others faced. she should count her self lucky.
+John Pain Bullshit everybody knows who Ms. Winfrey . And even if they don't which I doubt very seriously . Just because she is a black woman how dare these international stores not let her make an purpose . So fuck that racist shit your talking about to Tara dude .
John Pain sorry to inform you but Oprah anything other than an ORDINARY woman!! Try learning a thing or two before embarrassing you're dumb backwoods ass!!nlol
Shirley Mosely i suggest you go back to school, you HALF WIT and brush up on your fucking comprehension skills, and then and only then take another attempt at reading my post before you call me, or anyone else, a fucking racist!! Racism is abhorrent and SO is your stupidity
it's easy to say how to react when it isn't you experiencing this but when it happens your kind of in shock it's happening to you..thats what she's saying.
I'm the type of person who hates to be told NO. And I will not tolerate being dealt with in a racist manner. I'm the right one. I'll get things straight in the end.
Oprah: Could I see that bag? Salesperson: No. It's too expensive. Oprah: Could I buy your store, your city, if in the mood your country? And yeah. Keep the bag.
I don’t understand the Pretty Woman reference here. Vivian (Julia Roberts) bought items from OTHER stores and came back to rub it in the ladies face that wouldn’t help her. She didn’t give her any commission. That was the point of it being a BIG mistake. Oprah could have done the same thing. She could have gone to other places, bought a bunch of stuff from people that would help her, and then come back and flaunt it in the racist woman’s face. Right? Did I miss something?
We were having a drink at my shop last Friday night after working all week in this anti- business world we live in these days. When my German Shepard who drinks a little beer from time to time came over to me and said " Mike, if I ever get shit faced and try to hump Oprah"s leg, will you please stop me? " and I said, of coarse buddy I would, I love ya!
Happened to me in Houston's River Oaks shopping center. Walked into a sunglass store and asked to special order a custom pair of Oakleys (this is in 2006). The guy smirkes at me and giggled and says to me, " haha! Sorry this place has too much class for Oakleys. My friend who came in with me is mortified and so offended and turns around before causing a scene looks at and says, "Robert lets please leave before I tell this......Robert there is a wall full of Oakley brand glasses"! 😬 that stuck up guy was so embarrassed he walked in the back room. We left and I ordered my custom made glasses online.
Amen, Cruzan. Some people don't want to believe their putrid, hating hearts, so they accuse others of distorting the truth, whining, etc. We can ALL intuitively FEEL the underlying messages people are sending to us (especially when the vibe they're giving off is particularly intense) whatever color/nationality we may be. I loved that "Pretty Woman" scene when "Vivian" surprised the hell out of that snooty clerk. & I'm glad Oprah shared the pleasure of NOT giving - of not casting her pearls.. = ]
I have noticed in France as well as Belgium that if you don't attempt to use the native language they are kind of snobbish towards Americans. I am grateful that I can speak Spanish and I use that when in Europe. It does seem to help.
+B Kingston It's not reason to be snobbish but I don't blame them in one regard, you are visiting a country you should try out the language! It's half the fun of vacationing, learning a few basic sentences. They'll appreciate it for trying, hopefully have a friendly giggly and help you out in English. One amazing thing about Europe unlike us Canadians is they are almost always bilingual if not multilingual.
+B Kingston Well I'm French and I msut say I hate it when americans come to me asking me things in english from the start. Like first of all, not everyone knows english. Then, when you go to a country, you learn the basics "Bonjour, s'il vous plait, merci, au revoir....". Imagine if I came to LA or NY asking stuff in French and being angry at people for not answering my questions.
+B Kingston does spanish really helps? from my exerience beside Spain no other country knows spanish they almost all have English as a second language but besides if you have the luck to meet someone from Spanish origin no one will help you in Spanish they reader help you in English. And French people are somekind of weird but not that much in places like Paris but a word or two would be polite like bonjour etc and a friendly smile always works
Bravo! Oprah for being so humble and not making it a "Don't you know who I am?!" moment. Nevertheless, I hope the shop learned a good lesson. Racism pure and simple. And how do they know if the person they are serving can afford the item or not? I have always said that some of the wealthiest people are the most humble. It is usually the wealthy wanna-be types who are the pretentious ones.
I don’t like to paint everyone with the same brush, but this is very common in some of these elitist countries - I am a white man and have no desire to go to France, Sweden, or Switzerland. We are Americans roll out the red carpet to those counties way too much. Oprah experienced racism loud and clear. Sad and disgusting.
So relatable. Whenever I fly to Zurich and purchase a $5,000 alligator purse, people don't get that I'm a billionaire. Peasants don't understand just who they are dealing with.
It must be an amazing feeling to be able to spend that on a purse. With 4x as much, I would do a masters, and be made forever lol. It literally tears my spirit when I think someone can own a billion :) but yeah, 'peasants' can't understand that much wealth, neither would billionaires understand peasants :) but if for e.g, all your money was to be given suddenly to a peasant, be rest assured you'll understand each order in a split second, as he/she will be in a negotiation to buy you. Lol
Krab cake I am trying to stay out of poverty is there a way you could donate? I have worked hard most of my life I'm sure with your donation, I could invest in a business or real estate, to have the opportunity to achieve financial freedom.Thanks!
I agree, Steve. It truly IS pathetic and sad. Fran Lebowitz said it beautifully - "Racism is just a FANTASY of superiority"! Starting your own business SOON (if you haven't already)? I hope you are very successful now in whatever job you now have or are on your way to it - BIG TIME! Love and Blessings! XOX!
Oprah did not have to "tell" that woman anything. It's amazing that when it comes to blacks they're always supposed to have to "prove" or validate their worth or intelligence so they can be respected. That woman had NO right to assume or demean
The moment the store manager realized it was Oprah who they didn't let in...Well, that's embarrassing. It's hard to believe that people wouldn't recognize Oprah, but I'm sure when she's not in her glamorous make-up and her did up hair, she might look different. It's still not an excuse though.
It wasn't about the salesclerk knowing who Oprah is, it was about the salesclerk doing her job and showing the customer the item they asked to see. Point. Blank. Period.
You know....I kind of get it. I'm not saying it was an excuse, but it was a reason and I kind of get it. Two black people robbed the store so the store owners were playing it safe by not letting Oprah, a black person, in. It's a hell of a exaggerated response, but I understand it. For those who care to read, I'm gonna tell you a little story. Honestly, as a self proclaimed punk and skinhead (when I feel like shaving) who dresses to the nines to look as street punk as possible, I am very familiar with people presuming a lot about me, my attitudes, my racial beliefs, etc. And last year in my town when some skinhead arsonists burned down a bunch of people's houses, I couldn't walk 100 feet without being stopped by the police, asking me if I know so-and-so and whether I know anything about such-and-such. At the time, I couldn't go up to someone and ask for the time of day without them backing off in fear. And it made sense; a few guys who looked a certain way committed a terrible crime, and now here's a guy that belongs to that particular group, in the area. It's understandable. Hell, you can't say you weren't nervous when a man with a turban stepped onto your flight in late 2001 onward. Human fear is irrational. It really is. So of course it's no excuse to treat someone lesser, it just shouldn't come as much of a surprise.
***** At last somebody with some rational and critical thinking ability! Your statement is a checkmate to all racists who use scare tactics to further their agenda.
I think you are confusing a deliberate personal choice to look a particular way, with ones genetic racial assignment in this existence. I would maybe, maybe agree with you if they were robbed by masked men wearing hoodies and Oprah had on a hoodie and shades. Maybe. But to exclude someone due to the color of their skin is unreasonable. Especially because, if OPRAH WINFREY was just coming from a play, I know she was dressed up! And if you have ever seen her hairdresser Andre, you would know that he is far from threatening looking!! It was a complete racially motivated prejudicial action that was compounded by their utter stupidity when questioned about it and they admitted they did it. I guess they thought getting robbed by black people was a good enough excuse to deny any black person from shopping there. White people have to understand, when black people call out racism, they are referring to the racists. If you are not a racist the statements don't apply to you. Deal with it. Black people have to deal with it everyday. Contrary to belief MOST of us work to feed our families. We are not in gangs and dealing drugs. Yet we have to hear about black on black crime, violence in hip hop, welfare, unwed mothers, etc. on a daily basis!!!! We don't like thought of being associated with crime when we work hard every day to feed our families, either!! You learn to disassociate yourself from the rhetoric and be your best self regardless. Get over it...
I do not understand why when someone talks about their experience with race issues people want to deny it faster than bad sex? I am from the west coast, and as an Afro-Latino I was able to be included in many circles, and 1 occasion had a race encounter with a white person. Now, I lived on the east coast for 14 years and experienced race from whites and some other kinds as well. I really feel people need to get of the kick of my color is better than yours, because at the end of the day it is very childish.
A lot of people don't get what Oprah is trying to say. She is not being whiny or acting like a victim she is merely pointing out that racism is alive and continues to happen around the world.
I definitely agree that racism has to be to an end and I think it's a disgusting practice. I don't think that she should have specifically named Zurich because that makes the city look bad as a whole
It doesn't make the city look bad. She named Zurich because that's where she was and it points to the fact that racism a) still exists and b) exists everywhere.
I am from Zurich, and no there is no "security" at the store, it sure is an upscale boutique that sells known brands, but having a bunch of guards at the door is just not quiet as common over here. Nonetheless I have seen many cases of racism agains black people in Switzerland and find Oprah's story very believable. No matter whether the sales person is naive or not or whether it is Oprah or not, this is just sad and disgusting....
She never mentioned security in relation to the Swiss store. Just a sales person who did not want to let her see or handle a bag on the basis that she assumed it would be too expensive for Oprah
I have had the 'bag' story happen to me and I'm not black! This happened in a Greek shop - so it's not just a 'racist' thing .... I obviously looked like I couldn't afford anything!
I have that happen to me a lot. I look way younger and I am black. I travel all around the world and never get any assistance unless I am with my husband and then the staff are very forth coming. It used to bother me, but not any more
XD u just look cheap, but she just looked black, she did say that she was walking around like she would normally walk around, aka not cheap 😉 listen is key
Its amazing when u call someone a rascist they start start doing the very thing ur calling them! They start attacking.u.and calling rascist names and being very hateful! You see my black brothers and sisters how people show there true colors and they tell u what they really think of u and out.people!
While I'm sure that race played a part in Zurich, she has neglected to consider both fat-hating and class discrimination in that, which I'm sure were both at play as well. And Oprah.does typically look like a bit of hot mess when she's not on air. You can dress like a slob and be rich in America and no one really thinks of it but in most of Europe it's different- esp in French-speaking areas. If you're buying luxury goods- they expect you to look luxury.
+Volvican Are you insinuating that everyone that is rich in Europe is thin and looks "luxury", and that that somehow offers some kind of cultural justification for bias?? Maybe the "nouveau riche" people you know are all magazine ready / well dressed / sophisticated, but babe, many ULTRA rich people that happen to have tonnes of money do not look, as you mentioned, "luxury"…not even in Europe. Now, if by "luxury" you mean "caucasian", then yes, you may have a point. And just so you know, there are many everyday, working class people in the world, Europe included, that look "luxury" without having to shop that way. Pull your head out of your ass, luv.
+C. Lint Lol - yeah Babe - you've got some great reading comprehension there. You keep trolling the internet looking for things to get offended by - there is plenty for you.
+Volvican You're right. There's a lot to be offended by on the internet. I really need to work at brushing it off, but sometimes I can't. I'm working on it though.
+Volvican The point is who cares! Service is service! One of (if not the) richest women in the world, (Gina Rinehart) worth billions, always looks like a slob on her down time, and is obese, as she's always been in the mining industry, and doesn't have to prove shit to anyone!
+cammicty No - the point is that she is calling it a 'racist moment'. She's seeing it entirely through the lens of being black, when in reality, I bet various prejudices and biases were at play. And good for Gina Rinehart - I'm sure neither she or Oprah have to prove anything to anyone. I'm simply saying, that if Gina is as you say, I bet she gets similar treatment at times when she goes into such places and that these people in Zurich might have been racist, they might be fatists or just snobs or all of the above.
I'm white and I live near a white/black community. This happens to me all the time when I go to a black store. I get stared down like I'm a cop, I even get spit on at times. It happens to white people too Oprah. Tired of the race card shit.
+stevescissors the store associate admitted to not letting her in because two other black people robbed them so they assumed because she was black that she would do the same.
Its doesn't really matter what people say about loving or hating Oprah. She's a person who is flawed like us all and you shouldn't expend a great amount of energy obsessing over someone that isn't in your life. I do like to know that unfortunate things happen to rich people just like we normal people.
That has happened to us with blacks as well. People assume that if you’re black you can’t be wealthy. We had a Pretty Woman moment in a resort in Virginia when our BLACk waiter refused to allow us to order a bottle of wine because it was “too expensive.” After I discretely put our room key on the table, it was easily recognizable as a key to a $2,000 a night presidential suite, we asked for a different waiter, who turned out to be white and who received a large tip after making certain that we were well cared for all weekend. We made certain that the black waiter knew. Management had a complimentary apology basket of fruit sent to our suite.
I am considered white by our society and many time people considered black have discriminated against me just because of my skin color. The only reason that humans have different skin color is simple slight evolutionary changes based on geographic location. A racist can only be defined by those who think that there is more than one race; the human race.
I always find it absolutely HILARIOUS when counter girls or boys have the audacity to tell a customer they can't afford something when they themselves are a customer service rep who cannot afford the items in the store they work at themselves. Truly hysterical
You've said it all!!!👏🏾
Car salesman do that too
So true!!
Completely!!! Succinctly. You've said it perfectly. The paycheck to paycheck living idiots are sabotaging their own commission! lol
😂 absolutely true
A Black wealthy woman once told me something that stayed with me...I was taking her and her sister shopping in Milan and being the poor college student I was, I was intimidated upon entering the Louis Vuitton and Gucci stores. I expressed my concerns and the woman, who has experienced discrimination in high end American stores, told me that when this snobbery happens you just have to remember: "If you [the salesperson] could afford it, you wouldn't be working here."
HELLO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
When you work in customer service, you have no right to assume a persons ability to afford something. Whether someone is dressed down, dressed up, white, black, latino/a, asian, ANYTHING. This was racist. Stop trying to make excuses for it.
PREACH!!!
I think this might even go one step further than that. It might just be that she didn't want to sell that particular bag to a black woman, because it might diminish the perceived value / class of the item. If it's not that, then why would she offer to sell her another bag, even if it's cheaper? If this is anything like the Louis Vuitton store in Rome story of Oprah, and a similar brand, then even a cheaper bag will not be that cheap.
So I don't think the lady thought she couldn't afford it. I think she didn't want to sell that item to a black woman. And I think that's actually worse.
Hah, I didn't think of that exaplanation. Just crazy. Sure, I get the theft precautions, but surely there must be a way to let someone see a bad without them running off with it.
Oprah might be lying about this. That's undeniably true. However, this thing happening in the world is not something very surprising. It's surprising that it happened to her, but let's be honest: this type of racism is not really a stretch. So it doesn't require a lot of imagination to believe her story.
It does however take a stretch of imagination to follow your ridiculous anti-white conspriacy theory. Dude, if you're white and you didn't succeed in America, the land of opportunity, you are a useless human being. Stop blaming it on other races, they didn't have the miles of head start that you had.
@@KryzMasta wow...your ignorance!
"But then I thought she'd get a commission, so let's not do that" HAHAHAHAHHA
Oprah- "I was gonna buy everything, but then I thought, she was gonna get a commission so let's not do that" hahahahaha
+Nathan Kult She handled it well . . . you can tell she avoids controversy at all cost -
Nathan Kult I would have done the same thing to be honest.
Nathaniel News Network e
I am hollering at Oprah's comment!!!!! YASSSS HUNTY!!!!!
That's classist.
Good on Oprah for calling it out, if a black woman worth 2.5 billion dollars is still subjected to racism in our societies then you can only imagine how a poor black woman gets treated. Also, if you're arguing that racism doesn't exist and Oprah is imagining it by making racist comments towards her, maybe you should watch some simpler content.
Awesome reply. I'm laughing at your cleverness and sarcasm. Truly great.
ryan Israel you're such a pitiful soul.
Of course racism exists and; like murder, theft, and the flu; it will always exists but it's not pervasive nor is it institutional (and for those exceptional "institutional" racist moments that come up we have avenues to combat it). You, Oprah, and I have experienced more non-racist moments in our lives than racist.
This is not 1850 or even 1950, it's 2015...it's truly time, high time, that we all quit bellyaching over the R word.
Yes. I agree. Good for Oprha. Good for her calling out that "older white people need to die" as well ! I must have missed that time when she equally called out blacks, who attack whites with racist hatred on a regular basis, since she is such an unbiased supporter of equality. Wait a second. NO. NO. I DID NOT HEAR IT.
Naked Ten Year Old About To Get Head Cuz I Be Swaggin On Yo Main Chick In Some UGG Boots You Mad Asf
And there you go again with the personal attacks but, again, it's understandable coming from someone like you...that's all you know how to do.
*Lol! It's always the people who have no coherent argument to make who say "there's no point" in replying.* Like I've said before, you can't rebut anything I've said that's why you're doing everything else but that. :-D
You really are retarded because I didn't say racism was irrelevant. Follow along if you can: the gist of my argument is that I don't let racism affect my life, it's not all consuming, it's not pervasive, and I've gotten along well in this life despite non-pervasive racism. *And* I'm not going to play a "victim" to make you or anyone else feel better.
*Is there something about my preceding statement that is "wrong"?* Please point out what I've said that is "wrong" in either of my posts. And this time, refer to what I've actually said, not something you've made up in your head.
How is she pulling the race card or playing the victim? It's obvious she and her frend were victims of racism. I hate all of you who sweep racism under the rug. "want to end racism, stop talking about it" is such bullshit. I can't believe in this day and age people are still racist and do not take a stand against and instead are excusing it. smfh.
amen...
Racism is far worse today than when Oprah first began her talk show. Back then, I distinctly remember, her telling a young black man that was on the wrong path that her success was proof that black people could succeed in life. What was her objective? Let's keep these young black men angry? Heaven forbid they put racism behind them and do something with themselves. I love Bill Cosby!!!!
It's only okay to pull the race card if you're not of color. Whites can do it plenty
That's what racism is. Hate in whatever form. You hate everybody that does not stand up to racism. In effect creating more hate.
Oprah Worth: 2.9 Billion, Jennifer Aniston: 150 Million
Damien James I was referring to how the woman said the bag was made for Jennifer Aniston, as if that made it only for wealthy people. Oprah is way wealthier than her.
what is with you people?? I was just reiterating a point made in the video. If you are trying to make a point using Jesus Christ as an example than you should probably refrain from using a term like dickhead in the same comment.
What's wrong with these people is that they didn't really watch the video, or listen to the stories Oprah was telling, so they have no clue what you are referencing. Racist trolling.
Pete Currington lmao that bag was chum change to her LOL BIG MISTAKE
Lol it means Oprah is 13 times more wealthy than Jen Aniston.
One is a great story teller
The other one is a great listener/moderator
Complete and perfect interview
I noticed both of those things. ❤
If I could count how many times I've wanted to have a pretty woman moment.....
Carissa Rashea I hope you get that moment
If she had done that I would've fell out
I wish she mentioned the brand. They deserve to get backlash
Not if they get commission.
Too Expensive?! If you don't want nobody buying your product, because of the price, why would you have it on display?
She wasn't saying it's too expensive in general. She was saying it's too expensive for her.
@@melodramatic7904 *Can't BeLieve the IDIOT, Christ Edwards!!!!*
*I Wonder IF this IDIOT, Christ Edwards, has EVER Wised UP!!!? I Bet that Christ Edwards*
*Voted for Trump, in 2016!!! I Bet that Christ Edwards PLans to Vote Trump on Nov. 3rd, 2020!!!*
OMG
Stop spending your money in store that hate. blacks.
@@melodramatic7904 bit of a correction. She was saying the bag was too expensive for black women.
As a white man, I cringe when I hear these stories. It tells you a lot about what black people experience. But it's important that we all hear these stories. Everyone deserves respect.
Well said
As a white man I am sick of white persons feeling guilty about the racism of white people.
What is racism about ? Racism has nothing to do with disrespect. Racism is ethnicity, it is the preference of interaction inside your own ethnic group, including procreation. In this sense black people are no 'racist' because a big proportion of them seek to procreate with other races, not only with whites but also with Asiatics o whatever other ( the clash between Blacks and Koreans in L.A. 1992 were the worst riots to the date in US ). For this reason black people are always looking to be accepted. And fighting for it.
You would never see Indian, Pakistan, China, Viet-Nam or Japan people claiming, protesting and rioting because of discrimination or any other racial-related issue. Not even Latino people. Just blacks, and it should be said that for decades they have had a privileged social treatment -welfare, children benefits, jobs etc- over all other ethnic groups including whites.
If there is an ethnic group asking always to be accepted by other ethnic groups, it wouldn't be neither erratic nor erroneous to call them inferiors. Ethically inferiors.
If there is an ethnic group that always feels discriminated, it should be because they consider themselves 'discrimatable' (sorry for the neologism ).
In all other races, males are ok with their co-ethnic females. Just for blacks a considerable amount of them are always thirsty for other races females.
Racism is also a tool to black people to mate other ethnicity females, specially whites who tend to feel more guilty of the 'evils' of racism. A teenager white girl, or white young lady can easily, as it normal in sex relations, reject a white boy romantic proposals, but it is more complicated for her in the case the boy is black. It could be interpreted as racism from her side. Thus, in this way black boys has an advantage over white boys to take a white girl to the bed. Racism is in fact a tool to facilitate to black boys that white girls open their legs to them.
And if you pretend to tell me stories about the abuses of white people against black people in the past ( not mentioning the genocide of whites in Haiti by Jean Jacques Dessalines, today the National Hero of that country ) I suggest you to do a little investigation into the abuses TODAY of white people by black people in South Africa, something that you'll never find in mainstream media.
All of this without considering that whites did not invented slavery, but they did invented the abolition of slavery.
@@juliomiguel6597 Damn nobody read all your post. It is way too long. Racism exists in every part of the country. It is just ignorance and fear.
@@Daniel_Antonio_Arellano782 I found that my comment is good, and so it is not relevant for me if it is a bit too long.
Nobody read all my post.....? It is ok with me, I write quite long essays and do it for very few people, not for the general public who usually doesn't have any interest in reading and is always ignorant and with fears. I consider myself an intellectual, no a politic person.
I am not that kind of coward who quivers to death if somebody call him a racist, homophobic etc. I tell my mind on whatever a subject for those who are ready to fight my arguments with other arguments, and do no care about those who can just spit ad hominem insults.
Sheers
I and my family encounter these moments, more often than one would think. It's very sad and discouraging when this happens
I accept and believe this was a genuine story, Oprah you're beautiful for sharing this. Much love for those of colors who deal with this, you're more than enough. #worthy
Of course it really happened. She's repeated many of these stories over the years on her show, and interviews, and have gotten multiple apologies - one public one from the Swiss Tourism Board!
I respect your view and the point I'd like to make is this... If you saw me you will see a very fair skinned, modestly dressed, African American woman with glasses. I am not hostile nor the least bit unfriendly. I've gone into stores with a wallet full of money ready to purchase only to be ignored. Most times I leave. Sometimes I stay a minute to observe and notice when people of a different race walk in, they are acknowledged immediately. This happens quite a bit. Every now and then I will say something . I have so many stories to tell that It's ridiculous. Sure, the lady could be a snob. But why would a clerk in a store with goods for sale, refuse to service or help someone? I do not condone violence or throwing things but the blatant racism and disrespect becomes intolerable. especially when it happens on a regular basis to even us non confrontational, hard working, honest black Citizens or ANY race for that matter. I hate racism that comes from ANY race.
tee L.
Well said.
"That bag was created for Jennifer Aniston". LOL, she doesn't even have HALF of Oprah's net worth!
A store clerk shouldn’t need to know it’s a famous woman in order to let her buy what she wishes. What the clerk needs to know is that everyone should be treated the same when out shopping. And that is treat each shopper with grace and kindness.
i like how larry doesn't say a thing
that stuck out for me too
*Can you Imagine, Joe Scare, ALLowing Mica BryLzinski to Speak Like that???*
That’s what makes a good interviewer. They ask questions then shut up and let the person respond accordingly. RIP the 🐐
Does not matter how rich, or famous you are, you will be reminded often of the color of your skin. Systematic racism is alive and well.
Racism exists around the world and there is a pecking order to the racism. someone is always on the bottom of the list. In most countries there are centuries old biases.
Generalizing racism smh
@@tbrwn2548 Only facts.
First off there is no such thing as race. For being the "party of science" Democrats are completely ignorant of anything that is actually scientific.
Taxonomy (aka the SCIENTIFIC classification of organisms) ends with SPECIES. There is no scientific classification of race. In fact it takes a total of 9 genetic makers to determine the tone of one's skin but it takes 16 generic markers to determine the color of ones eyes including the same markers needed for skin tone.
So scientifically speaking someone with different color eyes but the same relative skin tone actually have less in common genetically than two people with different skin tones and the same color eyes. Even within the same family. That's where phenotypes and genotypes play a crucial roll.
Race is a government construct and is perpetuated by the very party that supported slavery throughout the entire history of this county aka the DEMOCRATS!
Case in point; Democrats think using the term African American is "woke." Here's a woke moment for all you liberals. Lumping an entire section of people based on similar skin tones into a single demographic insinuating that they are all related and some how all hail from the same continent is the epitome of a racial action.
Not to mention the very fact that it's segregating them from other Americans based solely on their skin tone is even more egregious. My wife who's skin tone is as black as night finds it absolutely offensive to be called African American and not one Democrat ever stops and think how offensive they are in using that term. Not to mention all the "woke" Democrats that call her an uncle Tom.
Racism is the result of ignorance and is only perpetuated by people who believe the lie. There is no "systemic" racism only ignorance by people who THINK they are smart but only know how to regurgitate what they were taught.
@@ygrene101 - very well explained and well written!!!
I LOVE hearing Oprah tell these stories because she’s such a badass and it makes my heart happy seeing her reign like she does 💖
Weird. I walked into Yves Saint Laurent to pick up my favorite perfume in Cannes. When we arrived, the sales clerks didn't want to serve mom and I. They noticed I was wearing Native American jewelry (I am Native American) and asked my mother about it. Mom said, "Oh my daughter, she is Native American." And I spoke a greeting in my tribe's language. The French, who are presumed to be hateful to Americans, fell over themselves to actually serve me, and when they realized I was actually going to purchase the perfume, were very gracious. Strange.
“Shopping while black” moment.
It amazes me how people like oprah will talk about racism to bring awareness to it but it never changes. It doesn't change because racist people are not disciplined for what they do. Every racist person should be embarrassed. That shit shouldn't be allowed period.
Oprah is racist just like whoopie
I like oprah because she has good values and great head on her shoulders..she could could have easily been egotistic specially considering the amount of wealth she has. but make no mistake about it..she worked very hard for every penny she has earned..I really respect this woman and hope she lives a very long healthy life..
It's disgraceful I remember going to buy a car and no one would look after me so I walked out and drove back to the guys and asked them did they like my new car their faces dropped,
Some times you forget the moments of racism you experience because they happen so consistently. This reminded me of one time a friend and I were shopping in SoHo. We watched a white lady walk out of a boutique with bags. We walked up right after her. This store had to buzz people in. The lady behind the counter saw us and tried to hide. She ducked down behind the counter. My friend and were laughing so hard because this woman was literally hiding behind a glass case. Hiding in plan sight. Lmao! We laughed about that all day
Just treat everyone with respect. That's all.
It's very shocking to know there are still people out there that don't recognize Oprah. Those people must have been living with their heads inside their asses. Smh.
Oprah is probably unpretentious and does not travel with an entourage. But then again, maybe they do recognize her and want to put her in her 'place'
Just bcz shes a celeb doesnt mean shes God. The sun doesnt rise & set on her. These celebs hv that opinion like well dont u kno who I am. No & dont really care!
one should not have to be a known quantity to be treated with respect
You're yet another clueless observer. It's not just about "Oprah." It's that regardless of wealth and status, Blacks are routinely abused and disrespected.
@@sherrinauman3226 Your comment is the perfect illustration of why things are the way they are.
Once I was walking to my car in a store parking lot with my daughter, I buckled her in and walked around to the driver side as I was doing so a elderly woman was opening her door to get out of her car once she seen me she closed her door locked it and clutched her purse. Ugh. Yeah I felt sad and mad all at the same time but as you see from these comments racism is far from ever being over.
If they think you look poor they do the same thing. It happened to me too and I am not black. When I asked what was the price the seller just said expensive. Very humiliating!
No they don't...I have worked in retail...Rich people enter luxury spaces as if they belong , people "pretending" to be rich will enter that space in a different manner and same with "poor" people. As a sales person you develop a sixth sense after a while...Women like Oprah enter those spaces like they belong and any sales person worth his/her salt is able to see that ...but when you are so focus on someone skin tone that your vision of the quality of their outfit, make up and quiet confidence is totally blurred...then that's racism....
The fact that we even deal with things like this in 2015 I treat every single person with respect and I think its only fair you do the same.
i love how she said but than shed get a commission lololol
*( she'd )*
I'll never get tired of hearing this story.
And if this happened to Oprah......jummmmm, Lord have Mercy
Why would you not show a client an item just because you think they won't be able to afford it? Like, what's the worst that can happen? At most they'll just check the bag out and not buy it. If you're already helping an individual client and you're watching them, how are they supposed to try and steal it? (Whether they actually are poor or it's just your racism is a whole other story.)
That's not the reason, it's because she is a colored woman. Total nonsense.
*Once I entered a store and was stared at and followed by employees although no one spoke to me or offered assistance. As I stood in line to pay I noticed a white man walk in, conceal an item, wait, then he casually walked out without paying. But the gaze of the employees never left me.*
I have had racist people look at me like that too. A couple of times. But I know they are the ones with the problems not me.
U see. Criminals do take advantage of such stupidity.
Unless you are a black , brown or a non white, you will never understand what racism feels. It hurts to the core. Years ago when we lived in overseas, my husband worked for a company who flew us a few times in first class from Algeria to Paris. We were the only non whites in the group. The flight attendant would always tell us, " This is first class". He/she assumed we were in the wrong cabin.
I work in luxury retail and I witness that everyday all type racism specially if you are fat the sales associate will walk away from you
*DO YOU STILL WORK at that STORE????*
This just happened to me hours ago today at a store. 😂
It happened to me once
Omg
I was born and raised in Zurich, Switzerland and coming from a Spanish Family I was terribly bullied and abused as a Child because of my roots. Even as an adult I encountered bullying because of that. I relocated to London 20 years ago and not even ONES I encountered a problem because I am Spanish. Not even ONES. Switzerland is a terrible place!
Yeah , i lived in Swiss 3 years, as Serbian , and discrimination is crazy . I relocated to germany and I never regretted , I never had racist problem in Germany and im 20 years now here .
I worked for the Swiss who owned a restaurant in the Northwest Territories in Canada. One of the staff was blatantly rude to the Inuit customers. You just don't do that in modern day Canada. The Swiss seem to have a mean streak.
So much class. Everyone can learn from this.
I would have told the saleswoman to google my name, look at my worth and proceed to walk out
I am swiss and I agree with you ( as well as a lot of other swiss citizens) that the restrictions for people who are seeking asylum are not ok and racist. Everbody should be allowed to go wherever they want to go.
I also agree on the second point.
I was telling my husband about this today and said she such a nice person to let it slide whereas I would've named and shamed the shop!
Why don't you expose them O?
I'm just so proud of Oprah that is a classy woman and she handled that like a pro!
So there ARE people in first world countries who dont know who she is...i am truly surprised!
+Tara Shaw She has had lots of problems like this in Europe. On her show she talked about shopkeepers refusing her in Paris and Rome, so Zurich should be no surprise.
+Tara Shaw we are not the center of the universe. to other countries Oprah is just some black woman. what Oprah faced pales in comparison to what I and many others faced. she should count her self lucky.
+John Pain Bullshit everybody knows who Ms. Winfrey . And even if they don't which I doubt very seriously . Just because she is a black woman how dare these international stores not let her make an purpose . So fuck that racist shit your talking about to Tara dude .
John Pain sorry to inform you but Oprah anything other than an ORDINARY woman!! Try learning a thing or two before embarrassing you're dumb backwoods ass!!nlol
Shirley Mosely i suggest you go back to school, you HALF WIT and brush up on your fucking comprehension skills, and then and only then take another attempt at reading my post before you call me, or anyone else, a fucking racist!! Racism is abhorrent and SO is your stupidity
it's easy to say how to react when it isn't you experiencing this but when it happens your kind of in shock it's happening to you..thats what she's saying.
I can't even believe that this kind of ignorant behavior still happens. It is disgusting to me!
Believe it, when U are black it's ALWAYS there.
She’s so damn humble omg, I would’ve been like DO YOU KNOW WHO I AM?!?! but then again... gotta be the bigger person 🙄😹
Right?!?! I would've been like WTF i am one of the most famous people in the WORLD. Like pull out google and show em my net worth !
*I wouLd have IMMEDIATELY went to Customer Service or the Manager of the STORE, & RePorted!!!!*
I'm the type of person who hates to be told NO. And I will not tolerate being dealt with in a racist manner. I'm the right one. I'll get things straight in the end.
Well...I was in Zurich last week 😂
Has anyone seen Oprah's performance in 'The Butler?' Phenominal.
Oprah: Could I see that bag?
Salesperson: No. It's too expensive.
Oprah: Could I buy your store, your city, if in the mood your country? And yeah. Keep the bag.
The old man is a great listener
I don’t understand the Pretty Woman reference here. Vivian (Julia Roberts) bought items from OTHER stores and came back to rub it in the ladies face that wouldn’t help her. She didn’t give her any commission. That was the point of it being a BIG mistake. Oprah could have done the same thing. She could have gone to other places, bought a bunch of stuff from people that would help her, and then come back and flaunt it in the racist woman’s face. Right? Did I miss something?
LMAO @ Oprah being told that something is too expensive for her...
She should have been like b**ch i could buy this whole store
👏👍
Renaee Graham lol right! But i'm glad she didn't. Wise on her point.
unfortunately racism is still alive and well not just in America, but obviously in Europe. if it happens to oprah, it can happen to anyone
had oprah gotten a bit too pissed in zurich she would've bought the girl lol
Wow Luis, thank you? We needed your comment as all these people just proved her point!!!
People want to avoid looking at themselves in the mirror, if O says it was racist, it was!
We were having a drink at my shop last Friday night after working all week in this anti- business world we live in these days.
When my German Shepard who drinks a little beer from time to time came over to me and said " Mike, if I ever get shit faced and try to hump Oprah"s leg, will you please stop me? " and I said, of coarse buddy I would, I love ya!
I would have been like 'bitch, i could buy YOU if i wanted to, now give me the god damn bag.'
lol true
Lol at the comments. Racists hate when their fellow racists are called out.
Happened to me in Houston's River Oaks shopping center. Walked into a sunglass store and asked to special order a custom pair of Oakleys (this is in 2006). The guy smirkes at me and giggled and says to me, " haha! Sorry this place has too much class for Oakleys. My friend who came in with me is mortified and so offended and turns around before causing a scene looks at and says, "Robert lets please leave before I tell this......Robert there is a wall full of Oakley brand glasses"! 😬 that stuck up guy was so embarrassed he walked in the back room. We left and I ordered my custom made glasses online.
Amen, Cruzan. Some people don't want to believe their putrid, hating hearts, so they accuse others of distorting the truth, whining, etc. We can ALL intuitively FEEL the underlying messages people are sending to us (especially when the vibe they're giving off is particularly intense) whatever color/nationality we may be. I loved that "Pretty Woman" scene when "Vivian" surprised the hell out of that snooty clerk. & I'm glad Oprah shared the pleasure of NOT giving - of not casting her pearls.. = ]
I have noticed in France as well as Belgium that if you don't attempt to use the native language they are kind of snobbish towards Americans. I am grateful that I can speak Spanish and I use that when in Europe. It does seem to help.
+B Kingston It's not reason to be snobbish but I don't blame them in one regard, you are visiting a country you should try out the language! It's half the fun of vacationing, learning a few basic sentences. They'll appreciate it for trying, hopefully have a friendly giggly and help you out in English. One amazing thing about Europe unlike us Canadians is they are almost always bilingual if not multilingual.
+B Kingston France is extreme. They learn English at school but they refuse to speak it. Sometimes even at tourist information centers.
+B Kingston Well I'm French and I msut say I hate it when americans come to me asking me things in english from the start. Like first of all, not everyone knows english. Then, when you go to a country, you learn the basics "Bonjour, s'il vous plait, merci, au revoir....".
Imagine if I came to LA or NY asking stuff in French and being angry at people for not answering my questions.
+tallladyjay That's what being a "melting pot" will do to a city.
+B Kingston does spanish really helps? from my exerience beside Spain no other country knows spanish they almost all have English as a second language but besides if you have the luck to meet someone from Spanish origin no one will help you in Spanish they reader help you in English.
And French people are somekind of weird but not that much in places like Paris but a word or two would be polite like bonjour etc and a friendly smile always works
Bravo! Oprah for being so humble and not making it a "Don't you know who I am?!" moment. Nevertheless, I hope the shop learned a good lesson. Racism pure and simple. And how do they know if the person they are serving can afford the item or not? I have always said that some of the wealthiest people are the most humble. It is usually the wealthy wanna-be types who are the pretentious ones.
The fact is... Racism exists and all Oprah was doing was sharing those unfortunate experiences with the public! What's the problem?!!
I don’t like to paint everyone with the same brush, but this is very common in some of these elitist countries - I am a white man and have no desire to go to France, Sweden, or Switzerland. We are Americans roll out the red carpet to those counties way too much. Oprah experienced racism loud and clear. Sad and disgusting.
Just read all the comments WOW !!
God help us all.
Godspeed
Oh Oprah it happens to everyone. You are not special
So why does she "whisper "she is having a racest moment . I would have scream it .
So relatable. Whenever I fly to Zurich and purchase a $5,000 alligator purse, people don't get that I'm a billionaire. Peasants don't understand just who they are dealing with.
It must be an amazing feeling to be able to spend that on a purse. With 4x as much, I would do a masters, and be made forever lol. It literally tears my spirit when I think someone can own a billion :) but yeah, 'peasants' can't understand that much wealth, neither would billionaires understand peasants :) but if for e.g, all your money was to be given suddenly to a peasant, be rest assured you'll understand each order in a split second, as he/she will be in a negotiation to buy you. Lol
Krab cake I am trying to stay out of poverty is there a way you could donate? I have worked hard most of my life I'm sure with your donation, I could invest in a business or real estate, to have the opportunity to achieve financial freedom.Thanks!
Is the word 'peasant' a bit racist?
Great piece.
I agree, Steve. It truly IS pathetic and sad. Fran Lebowitz said it beautifully - "Racism is just a FANTASY of superiority"! Starting your own business SOON (if you haven't already)? I hope you are very successful now in whatever job you now have or are on your way to it - BIG TIME! Love and Blessings! XOX!
Oprah did not have to "tell" that woman anything. It's amazing that when it comes to blacks they're always supposed to have to "prove" or validate their worth or intelligence so they can be respected. That woman had NO right to assume or demean
The moment the store manager realized it was Oprah who they didn't let in...Well, that's embarrassing. It's hard to believe that people wouldn't recognize Oprah, but I'm sure when she's not in her glamorous make-up and her did up hair, she might look different. It's still not an excuse though.
It wasn't about the salesclerk knowing who Oprah is, it was about the salesclerk doing her job and showing the customer the item they asked to see. Point. Blank. Period.
She's had this happen all over Europe. Italy, Switzerland and France. So sad.
Great video!
How does anyone not know who Oprah is lmao
You know....I kind of get it. I'm not saying it was an excuse, but it was a reason and I kind of get it. Two black people robbed the store so the store owners were playing it safe by not letting Oprah, a black person, in. It's a hell of a exaggerated response, but I understand it. For those who care to read, I'm gonna tell you a little story.
Honestly, as a self proclaimed punk and skinhead (when I feel like shaving) who dresses to the nines to look as street punk as possible, I am very familiar with people presuming a lot about me, my attitudes, my racial beliefs, etc. And last year in my town when some skinhead arsonists burned down a bunch of people's houses, I couldn't walk 100 feet without being stopped by the police, asking me if I know so-and-so and whether I know anything about such-and-such. At the time, I couldn't go up to someone and ask for the time of day without them backing off in fear. And it made sense; a few guys who looked a certain way committed a terrible crime, and now here's a guy that belongs to that particular group, in the area. It's understandable.
Hell, you can't say you weren't nervous when a man with a turban stepped onto your flight in late 2001 onward. Human fear is irrational. It really is. So of course it's no excuse to treat someone lesser, it just shouldn't come as much of a surprise.
***** At last somebody with some rational and critical thinking ability! Your statement is a checkmate to all racists who use scare tactics to further their agenda.
I think you are confusing a deliberate personal choice to look a particular way, with ones genetic racial assignment in this existence. I would maybe, maybe agree with you if they were robbed by masked men wearing hoodies and Oprah had on a hoodie and shades. Maybe. But to exclude someone due to the color of their skin is unreasonable. Especially because, if OPRAH WINFREY was just coming from a play, I know she was dressed up! And if you have ever seen her hairdresser Andre, you would know that he is far from threatening looking!! It was a complete racially motivated prejudicial action that was compounded by their utter stupidity when questioned about it and they admitted they did it. I guess they thought getting robbed by black people was a good enough excuse to deny any black person from shopping there. White people have to understand, when black people call out racism, they are referring to the racists. If you are not a racist the statements don't apply to you. Deal with it. Black people have to deal with it everyday. Contrary to belief MOST of us work to feed our families. We are not in gangs and dealing drugs. Yet we have to hear about black on black crime, violence in hip hop, welfare, unwed mothers, etc. on a daily basis!!!! We don't like thought of being associated with crime when we work hard every day to feed our families, either!! You learn to disassociate yourself from the rhetoric and be your best self regardless. Get over it...
I do not understand why when someone talks about their experience with race issues people want to deny it faster than bad sex? I am from the west coast, and as an Afro-Latino I was able to be included in many circles, and 1 occasion had a race encounter with a white person. Now, I lived on the east coast for 14 years and experienced race from whites and some other kinds as well. I really feel people need to get of the kick of my color is better than yours, because at the end of the day it is very childish.
coquiangel vcvvv
A lot of people don't get what Oprah is trying to say. She is not being whiny or acting like a victim she is merely pointing out that racism is alive and continues to happen around the world.
I'm white but if I was black I would have attributed a lot of stuff that happened to me "racism"
Examples?
Austin Adams That exact thought is very ignorant and it's so ironic how you you do not understand it
Isaac Gonzalez nope you are ignorant and uneducated, like most black people
+Austin Adams ''most black people'' are ignorant and uneducated really bro???? now I know why they say ''ignorance is blindness''
I definitely agree that racism has to be to an end and I think it's a disgusting practice. I don't think that she should have specifically named Zurich because that makes the city look bad as a whole
It doesn't make the city look bad. She named Zurich because that's where she was and it points to the fact that racism a) still exists and b) exists everywhere.
sphrkilo I know, I acknowledged and quite understood that that was the point. But to purposefully call out a city makes them look bad.
Birchall II There are so many things wrong with your comment, I'm not even going to begin to point them out.
No racism, it's a conjob.
Your comment is definitely one of the dumber ones I've seen on UA-cam.
I am from Zurich,
and no there is no "security" at the store, it sure is an upscale boutique that sells known brands, but having a bunch of guards at the door is just not quiet as common over here.
Nonetheless I have seen many cases of racism agains black people in Switzerland and find Oprah's story very believable. No matter whether the sales person is naive or not or whether it is Oprah or not, this is just sad and disgusting....
She never mentioned security in relation to the Swiss store. Just a sales person who did not want to let her see or handle a bag on the basis that she assumed it would be too expensive for Oprah
I have had the 'bag' story happen to me and I'm not black! This happened in a Greek shop - so it's not just a 'racist' thing .... I obviously looked like I couldn't afford anything!
I have that happen to me a lot. I look way younger and I am black. I travel all around the world and never get any assistance unless I am with my husband and then the staff are very forth coming. It used to bother me, but not any more
But you are not Oprah Winfrey !
+fanoffloyd34 Oprah is lying. She's a racist POS.
XD u just look cheap, but she just looked black, she did say that she was walking around like she would normally walk around, aka not cheap 😉 listen is key
Good interview.
Its amazing when u call someone a rascist they start start doing the very thing ur calling them! They start attacking.u.and calling rascist names and being very hateful! You see my black brothers and sisters how people show there true colors and they tell u what they really think of u and out.people!
EXACTLY.
"i am not the person who pulls the race card"???? REALLY?
stupid racist bitch ..
Spacebunz yes, really!
While I'm sure that race played a part in Zurich, she has neglected to consider both fat-hating and class discrimination in that, which I'm sure were both at play as well. And Oprah.does typically look like a bit of hot mess when she's not on air. You can dress like a slob and be rich in America and no one really thinks of it but in most of Europe it's different- esp in French-speaking areas. If you're buying luxury goods- they expect you to look luxury.
+Volvican Are you insinuating that everyone that is rich in Europe is thin and looks "luxury", and that that somehow offers some kind of cultural justification for bias?? Maybe the "nouveau riche" people you know are all magazine ready / well dressed / sophisticated, but babe, many ULTRA rich people that happen to have tonnes of money do not look, as you mentioned, "luxury"…not even in Europe. Now, if by "luxury" you mean "caucasian", then yes, you may have a point. And just so you know, there are many everyday, working class people in the world, Europe included, that look "luxury" without having to shop that way. Pull your head out of your ass, luv.
+C. Lint Lol - yeah Babe - you've got some great reading comprehension there. You keep trolling the internet looking for things to get offended by - there is plenty for you.
+Volvican You're right. There's a lot to be offended by on the internet. I really need to work at brushing it off, but sometimes I can't. I'm working on it though.
+Volvican The point is who cares! Service is service! One of (if not the) richest women in the world, (Gina Rinehart) worth billions, always looks like a slob on her down time, and is obese, as she's always been in the mining industry, and doesn't have to prove shit to anyone!
+cammicty No - the point is that she is calling it a 'racist moment'. She's seeing it entirely through the lens of being black, when in reality, I bet various prejudices and biases were at play. And good for Gina Rinehart - I'm sure neither she or Oprah have to prove anything to anyone. I'm simply saying, that if Gina is as you say, I bet she gets similar treatment at times when she goes into such places and that these people in Zurich might have been racist, they might be fatists or just snobs or all of the above.
I'm white and I live near a white/black community. This happens to me all the time when I go to a black store. I get stared down like I'm a cop, I even get spit on at times. It happens to white people too Oprah. Tired of the race card shit.
Those experiences were just as bad as Oprah's. I dont think Oprah was playing the race card. She spoke on experiences just like yours.
I have my opinion, you have yours. I feel she was.
+stevescissors I feel she wasnt. It happened to her just like it happened to you. Neither is excusable. It was a race situation with u also it seems.
+stevescissors the store associate admitted to not letting her in because two other black people robbed them so they assumed because she was black that she would do the same.
It's funny cuz black people are just as racist. Why don't we hear about that? I've seen black on white racist many times.
I totally agree.. These thing happens all the time and every where in the world.
Oprah has a big heart.
Its doesn't really matter what people say about loving or hating Oprah. She's a person who is flawed like us all and you shouldn't expend a great amount of energy obsessing over someone that isn't in your life. I do like to know that unfortunate things happen to rich people just like we normal people.
I love Oprah!!
That has happened to us with blacks as well. People assume that if you’re black you can’t be wealthy. We had a Pretty Woman moment in a resort in Virginia when our BLACk waiter refused to allow us to order a bottle of wine because it was “too expensive.” After I discretely put our room key on the table, it was easily recognizable as a key to a $2,000 a night presidential suite, we asked for a different waiter, who turned out to be white and who received a large tip after making certain that we were well cared for all weekend. We made certain that the black waiter knew. Management had a complimentary apology basket of fruit sent to our suite.
I am considered white by our society and many time people considered black have discriminated against me just because of my skin color. The only reason that humans have different skin color is simple slight evolutionary changes based on geographic location. A racist can only be defined by those who think that there is more than one race; the human race.
I did not get invited to Tina Turner's wedding which rather surprised me as I was supposed to be the groom.