We have observed some of your stores using extra security on African American hair products.

Other hair products, for non-African American hair, remain free of such restrictions. We are writing to tell you this discriminatory practice must stop. Locking up only these products sends a hurtful and insensitive message to Walmart employees and customers, as well as Virginians in the surrounding communities that, frankly, African Americans are more likely to steal such products than their white counterparts.

We understand that crime has been a problem at Walmart stores across the country. This is not the way to decrease crime. As Suffolk City Council member Curtis Milteer Sr., told us: “Walmart has the right to protect its merchandise, but if there is discrimination, it should be corrected.”

We ask that you institute meaningful changes to staffing and security and end this discrimination.