I want to start off by saying I LOVE THIS MALL. I've been going here since I was 13 and will continue going to this mall despite the following message.
It's a good mall however recently I had a horrible experience with a security guard. A security guard apparently thought I was lying about my age somehow, despite being 19 and having my completely valid, very obviously real ID with me. She then was excessively rude to me and my friend considering us underage even though we both had viable proof of being over the age of 18. It was very disheartening especially when other people of a taller height walked past and when questioned or told that it didn't make sense to us why we were being ID'ed but not others who although we're taller looked visibly younger with bright neon pink hair, we were met with disrespect and told we were giving sass. My friend started to be rude, but I was genuinely terrified during this whole ordeal. I know multiple people who have been attacked by police officers and after knowing those things and expierencing a confrontation that was disproportionate to the situation, it was very alarming and sent me spiraling into an idea that I was going to die. So, of course, I stood in place shaking, and the security officer, instead of understanding or even recognizing that I had my ID and I was freaking out during the situation due to previous traumas decided that was a good time to tell us that if we were going to be rude that we could stand outside in 40°F weather with high winds, rain and when neither I or my friend had coats. Despite the fact that I was being completely silent and still, shaking. Even though my friend had been rude and swearing it did not warrant me as well to get reprimanded and given an angry response while I was already terrified out of my mind, knowing this woman thought I was underage (most likely due to my height) and also was most likely carrying a gun. It was very scary to me as someone who has PTSD. My mom ended up driving us home, and the second we got into the car, I let out a sigh, took a deep breath, and talked about the situation. After talking about it, I just cried. I just started balling my eyes out, and it sent me spiraling for multiple days until I saw my therapist 2 or 3 days later. I have experienced DV, and this was a huge activation for me. I went back after that, and that same woman gave me nasty looks and angry faces each time she saw me, and each time, it scared me just as much as the first time. I recognize that I was making a bigger deal out of the situation than necessary, however when you have a partial hospitalization program for mood and anxiety disorders literally across the street, I would expect some level of awareness when others are threatened by your presence especially as a police officer. It felt very disheartening and scary. I've been going to this mall since I was around 15, and at 19, this is the first time I've felt threatened by someone, despite getting stopped to get my ID checked dozens of times at this same mall in the past. It felt unprofessional, belittling, embarrassing, and isolating. I felt that since I was smaller than others my age, I was wrongfully isolated and not believed based on...
Read moreCouple things before I explain my . I am a disabled vet, a master social worker. Social justice and equality are my thing. Lastly, I’m almost 40. What I experienced today reminded me why I left the dmv. I saw more police and security than customers. There were more cop k9s than service dogs. When I was getting food in the food court the security approached a woman next to me and told her to give them her id. She asked why? She told them she was 20 and worked at the mall. She explained that she knew the guards and they knew which store she worked at. She laughed it off saying the couldn’t be serious but they persisted with harassing her. The took her away while she was telling them to let her go. When I was leaving with my wife the same security stood at the entrance asking every black woman rudely what their ages were. They never asked white women and rarely white men. When they asked white men their tone was very subordinate. The last woman laughed at said are you serious, I’m 47. At this point I had it with the misuse of power and I said to the guard you need more experience with black women because I can see that woman is older than me from her? I asked told him let me guess you are in your 20s? Well that woman is old enough to be your mother. He said excuse me I’m almost 30. I said again she’s old enough 5o be your mom you need to respect your elders even how you asked was rude. He keep getting defensive and aggressive and his supervisor came out to watch. This was one of the same guards that look the other woman in the food court. I told him as the person in some power he could at least admit his mistake. She was clearly over 17. I would not advise any well aging black woman to patron this profiling mall. They handled us like we were enemies and...
Read moreThe Mall in Columbia: A Premier Shopping Destination
The Mall in Columbia, located in the heart of Columbia, Maryland, is a vibrant retail and lifestyle hub offering a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Nestled between Baltimore and Washington, D.C., this iconic mall is a cornerstone of the community, attracting visitors from across the region.
With over 200 stores, including major anchors like Nordstrom, Macy’s, and Apple, The Mall in Columbia caters to every taste and need, from high-end fashion to everyday essentials. Beyond shopping, it boasts a dynamic dining scene with restaurants such as Maggiano’s Little Italy, The Cheesecake Factory, and Seasons 52, perfect for a casual meal or special occasion.
The mall is also a community gathering space, featuring seasonal events, live entertainment, and a picturesque lakefront area ideal for relaxing strolls. Its proximity to Merriweather Post Pavilion makes it a popular stop for concert-goers and locals alike.
Whether you’re looking for the latest trends, a great meal, or family-friendly activities, The Mall in Columbia offers a premier experience in a welcoming environment. Stop by and explore all it...
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