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Sephora set to close stores in the US for a diversity training day

Images via SZA/Instagram
Words by Nicole La Ruffa

Some much-needed schooling.

Time and time again, we’ve seen issues of racial discrimination arise in the beauty industry Tarte’s inadequate ‘Shape Tape’ shade range might spring to mind.

Well, for any US shopper planning to pop into Sephora this Wednesday, you’ll need to cancel your plans. The cosmetic giant will be shutting down its doors (just for the day) to host diversity training for its staff.

The training comes after a racial profiling incident last month, when R&B singer SZA was stopped by security while shopping at Sephora’s Calabasas store. The artist took to Twitter to vent her frustrations, calling out the beauty store employee who she dubbed ‘Sandy Sephora’ – for accusing her of theft.

In response, Sephora issued a public apology, announcing on Twitter: ‘[SZA] You are a part of the Sephora family, and we are committed to ensuring every member of our community feels welcome and included at our stores’.

The brand will be undertaking measures to ensure that its employees are adhering to company guidelines and values. Staff will participate in ‘inclusive workshops’, which will serve as part of Sephora’s ‘We Belong to Something Beautiful’ initiative.

You can read up on the campaign here.

sephora.com

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