My Name Is Black Leggings, And I’m Here To File A Grievance Against My Employer, Ashley
I’m over-worn, overworked, and under-appreciated.
Dear Human Resources,
My name is Black Leggings, and this is my grievance against my boss, Ashley, the 33-year-old white woman who has been employing me for three years now. There are problematic incidents I’d like to report, all involving being regularly overworked, expectations to perform duties outside of my job description, and unfair treatment.
When I first agreed to the job the day Ashley approached me at Marshalls, I was clearly in the “Athletics“ section. Though there was no contract regarding the details of my employment, it seemed self-evident I’d be employed for athletic reasons. With the recent popularity of “Athleisure”, I expected some cross-over of responsibilities occasionally; unfortunately that hasn’t been the case. Frankly, my working conditions have become intolerable.
One of the most egregious issues occurred on a Tuesday. I was paired with a Tunic, and worn to work all day: 7:00 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. Though I’m not writing to complain about the Tunic, I’d like to mention the lack of clarity of exactly what the Tunic position entails. I thought the job description was practically identical to that of a Shirt, but now I’m hearing that Tunics could be “treated” as Dresses too? There’s a discrepancy. Anyways, though the Tunic and I worked together, the Tunic was the only one who got any recognition: a compliment from Ashley’s intern. Yes, the Tunic is “cute” due to it’s trendy design: an all-over mini-succulent print. People love succulents. But I brought the outfit together by doing the work behind the scenes. I don’t expect trophies, but being constantly ignored feels like a hostile work environment, and it’s taking a toll on my mental health. Moreover, that same day, Ashley went home to prepare for spinning class; she undressed to put on a gym outfit. She delegated the tasks to: Sports Bra, Tank Top, Socks, Sneakers, and Underwear. Now, she needed bottoms. She riffled through her extensive leggings collection, which includes six other pairs of solid black leggings, mind you. But did she choose any of those? No. She chose me. Yup. She picked me up off the floor, and put me right back on. Again. Even though I already worked a full-day shift. So, I had to endure spinning: loud techno remixes, swass, vigorous repetitive bicycling motions, yet again being snubbed for my hard work. The Tank Top got a compliment from the instructor. I understand that the Tank Top’s brand is Under Armor, and that it’s an eye-catching neon pink. But I worked harder in that one day than that Tank Top ever has. There’s an unfair lack of equality.
Another unsettling workday was a Friday when I was worn to work, again, even though Ashley had plenty of other bottoms in her two bureaus and full closet! She has seven pairs of Jeans, four pairs of Capris, and too many Skirts to count. However, an old Graphic Tee, who asked to remain unnamed, informed me that Ashley hasn’t utilized any of those bottoms for years! For some reason, Ashley still keeps these garments on the payroll. Just because I have “stretchy” and “comfortable” and “flattering” moisture-wicking material, I have to pick up the slack?
Anyways, I had agreed to work part-time; neither overtime nor double shifts were mentioned. However, there have been multiple instances when Ashley has forced me to “go from day to night.” Often, after wearing me to work, when she should’ve probably worn actual pants there anyways, Ashley “repurposes” me for her evening outfit. Like on this particular Friday: Ashley pulled off her yet-another-Tunic, and threw on a wool Sweater Dress over me, leaving me on roasting underneath, suffering between her thighs. Meanwhile, she sits with her annoying friend Kelsey who only talks about her shitty husband Tom and their relationship problems. Ashley and Kelsey lounge on their asses, and therefore my spandex, for hours drinking Moscato while I endure it; I’m not even eligible for bonuses or comp time!
In conclusion, I respectfully ask that my boss’s behavior be addressed. I’m requesting clear guidelines for my responsibilities within this company. I’d like to continue working here, but due to my flexibility and transferable skills, I’m being taken advantage of by my supervisor. Please contact me at your earliest convenience for a grievance meeting.
Thank you in advance.
Sincerely,
Black Leggings
Kerry Webster Reynolds is a Massachusetts Creative Writing teacher who writes her own stuff sometimes. Words: Points in Case, The Belladonna, Daily Drunk, etc. Follow her! @KWebbyRey. Really. She’s new to Twitter and gets V excited about followers.