In a viral TikTok video that has garnered over 1.4 million views, Ella Halikas and Alexa Jay, both prominent plus-size models and social media influencers, made shocking allegations of discrimination after they were denied entry to The Highlight Room, a renowned club in Hollywood.
It Was Supposed to Be a Fun Birthday Party
The incident unfolded as Alexa arrived at the club for her friend’s birthday celebration and joined a group of about 15 guests waiting in line.
The Bouncer Said What?
However, as the promoter began allowing the other girls in, Alexa’s turn was abruptly halted when the bouncer placed the rope in front of her, scanning her up and down with a disdainful gaze before uttering the words, “Yeah, not tonight,” as if her size was the determining factor.
Her Plea Fell on Deaf Ears
Despite being a part of the group that was being granted entry, Alexa’s pleas fell on deaf ears as the bouncer seemingly reaffirmed his discriminatory stance.
‘I Was Being Discriminated Against’
Expressing her disbelief and frustration, Alexa said, “At that point, it was extremely apparent what was going on and that I was being discriminated against because of the size of my body.”
Her Friend Tries to Get In Too
Ella, who was also present, attempted to intervene by swapping places with Alexa at the front of the line, hoping to challenge the bouncer’s unfair decision.
Hearing the Same Response
However, they were met with the same dismissive treatment, as the bouncer repeated the infamous phrase, “not tonight,” after another demeaning scan of Ella’s body.
Staff Members Did Not Intervene
Adding insult to injury, the models claimed that another staff member witnessed the exchange but chose not to intervene, disregarding their pleas for fairness and respect.
She Expressed Her Disappointment
Reflecting on the dehumanizing experience, Ella expressed her disappointment, stating, “A security guard was there and did not help. He was like, ‘Oh, that’s not really my thing.'”
Left Them Feeling Disrespected
The incident left Ella and Alexa feeling invisible and disrespected, echoing the anguish and humiliation accompanying any form of discrimination.
Taking a Stand Against Discrimination
Determined to take a stand, they vowed not to let this injustice go unnoticed or unaddressed.
Response From the Club
In response to the uproar caused by the TikTok video, a spokesperson for Tao Group Hospitality, the company that owns The Highlight Room, stated that they were aware of Ella and Alexa’s experience and were actively engaging with them to discuss the incident further.
A Commitment to Improve
The spokesperson emphasized the company’s commitment to providing an inclusive environment, stating, “Our company does not tolerate discrimination of any kind,” while acknowledging the importance of feedback in improving the overall guest experience.
Working Hard to Expose These Unfair Places
The incident involving Ella Halikas and Alexa Jay is a stark reminder that size discrimination persists, even in supposedly progressive and inclusive spaces.
It Ignited a Demand for Change
Their courageous decision to share their ordeal on social media has ignited a wave of outrage and demands for change.
They Want Equal Treatment
As discussions surrounding body positivity and inclusivity gain momentum, this incident serves as a call to action for clubs and establishments to prioritize equal treatment and ensure that all individuals, regardless of their size, are afforded the same opportunities and respect.
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The post Prominent Plus-Size Models Denied Entry to LA Club Because of Their Size first appeared on Fistful of Dollars.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Reviaka Ina. The people shown in the images are for illustrative purposes only, not the actual people featured in the story.
Source: TikTok