Do I have a case for racial discrimination at cosmetology school?

Question

I’m a cosmetology student who’s experienced repeated racial discrimination at two campuses. In my first program, I was only given Black clients, told I was “good at silk presses for the right reasons,” which i have proof of and eventually removed over a false claim. I was threatened with police despite remaining calm, and told my emails “sounded aggressive.” Black clients were often mistreated, and I was assigned them even though no teacher could teach textured hair. I re-enrolled at a different location after an appeal because the claim was false and still face bias: ignored by staff, placed in the back, denied clients, and told to “practice braiding” based on assumptions. After asking 4 times, I was finally given clients. I’ve spent days doing nothing despite paying tuition again. Do I have a case for discrimination or educational negligence? Should I wait to graduate before filing? Thank you.

James L. Arrasmith · Answer

What you’ve described is painful and unjust, and no student should have to endure repeated discrimination, especially in a place meant for learning and professional growth. Being assigned clients based on race, told you’re only skilled in one area “for the right reasons,” and denied meaningful instruction or equal treatment are all serious red flags. The fact that you were removed based on a false claim and threatened with police despite staying calm adds to a clear pattern of bias and unequal treatment. 
 
Yes, you may have a case for racial discrimination under federal civil rights laws like Title VI, which prohibits discrimination in schools that receive federal funds. You’ve taken steps to document what happened and have proof of some comments, which is incredibly important. If you’re being denied the opportunity to learn and develop equally with your peers, you may also be able to argue educational negligence or breach of contract—especially since you’ve paid tuition but are being pushed aside. Whether you file now or wait until after graduation depends on your immediate goals and whether you fear retaliation that could impact your progress. 
 
You deserve to learn in an environment that respects your identity and values your ambition. Keep documenting everything—dates, names, actions, and emails—and consider speaking with a civil rights attorney who can guide you through next steps. Waiting until graduation is one option, but you don’t have to stay silent while you continue to be mistreated. Your voice matters, and you’re not wrong to demand fairness and dignity in your education.

Q: Do I have a case for racial discrimination at cosmetology school?