A Shocking Experience at the Glendale Americana

On October 9th 2010, I went with a few friends to the Glendale Americana to see the new hit movie, The Social Network. We met up at around 1:30 PM, got a few snacks at the Starbucks inside Barnes and Noble, and then headed off to see the movie. From the time we hit the concession stand, our peaceful and fun time together quickly turned into a time of harassment and discrimination. As we waited in line, we each stood in a different line to see which one moved faster. When one friend got to the front of the line, we all moved over to order at the same time. The woman directly behind scowled at us and said in a harsh angry tone, "That is not okay. I have been waiting here for so long." We argued that we had been here first, but we were pushed to the back of the line, all because we were adolescents. This spot saving method is one I have witnessed in many adults, being practiced with no complaint or question. Adults are simply respected when waiting in line, and children are simply not. If we had been adults waiting in that same line, chances are, the woman would not have uttered a word.

Then as we headed inside the theater after we had to wait horrendously long to purchase popcorn, candy, and drinks, a supervisor is in the hallway arguing with one friend, because he thought he had touched the screen when he swore he didn't! He nearly removed all of us who paid decent money to see the movie for something one person did not even do! If this had been an adult, or if a parent had been present, all of that unnecessary interrogation and harassment would have been avoided. Only after much persuasion were we allowed back in. After the movie had ended, we hit the restrooms walked outside, and stood in the playground area between two kiosks. As we were discussing what to do next, a tall, young, hispanic security guard approached us. He immediately said, "Hello, how are you doing today? Well, I'm here to make you aware of our policy here at the Americana that you must be shopping at all times. When you come here, we want everyone to shop."

One of us then said, "We just saw a movie though."

The security guard then replied, "But when you come out, you have to begin shopping immediately, and when you get movie tickets, you must head straight into the theatre, no walking around beforehand! And by the way, all minors have to be out of here by 10:00."

We then replied, "Were just figuring out what to do."

The security guard then said, "Well, okay, as long as you get shopping soon." and then walked off.

This security guard clearly harassed us entirely because of our age.

All youth deserve the same respect as adults when in public. It's that simple. They should be able to enjoy time with friends and by themselves without unnecessary harassment, questioning, ridicule or interrogation.