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I attended this studio for the first time today, and my experience was unsettling. I arrived early, greeted the instructor, and sat down quietly as I waited for class to begin. As I was unfamiliar with the studio and the equipment, I simply waited for further instruction.
As I was sitting there, the two remaining guests arrived. The instructor, who is a Caucasian man, looked at me with a side-eye and asked, “Are you all right?” in a tone that felt accusatory. Confused, I asked what he meant. He then claimed that my “energy” seemed off and explained that he’s used to “Karens” coming into the studio.
As a Chinese and Black woman, and the only person of color in the class, I found his comment deeply inappropriate and uncomfortable. Despite the unease, I completed the class, intending to address the issue afterward. Unfortunately, when I raised my concerns, the instructor’s response was filled with deflection and ignorance.
This experience left me feeling targeted and singled out for no valid reason. It’s disappointing to encounter such behavior, especially in a setting meant for health and wellness.
8.19.24
If diversity is truly a value you uphold in your studio, I hope that in the future you’ll take the concerns of people of color seriously when they express feeling uncomfortable, rather than responding in the dismissive and deflective manner you did below. I entered your studio peacefully and with good intentions, yet you felt compelled to aggressively “check” me under the assumption that I might misbehave, simply because of negative experiences you’ve had with other ClassPass members.
I am not a child. I came in with positive energy, sat quietly, played with your dogs, and even engaged in a friendly conversation with another member whom I know from a different studio. You, on the other hand, appeared visibly upset and frustrated about something on your phone, which led me to simply stay out of your way and wait for further instructions.
The fact remains that your response lacked accountability and was filled with deflection and perhaps some deeper prejudices or insecurities. You have a beautiful studio, and I truly hope that your own “energy” doesn’t undermine that.
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