Former Atlanta Hawks Security Manager Says the Team Discriminated Against Black Celebrities

Sam Hayes,  a former Atlanta Hawks security manager, is suing the team for its mistreatment of black celebrities at the Philips Arena.

According to TMZ, Hayes, who also ran security at Philips Arena, said he was fired for pointing out the discrimination black celebrities faced in the Hawks’ arena. In addition, the former employee accused his boss, who was white, of putting black celebrities through the ringer, as white celebrities bypassed security without incident.

Hayes said he noticed a pattern in regards to who his manager allowed clearance. While, Drake and Future’s request to bypass metal detectors were denied, AC/DC’s request was granted one week later. The former security manager provided a list of celebrities who received special treatment, or lack thereof. While Kanye West, 2 Chainz, Migos and Tyler Perry were denied, Amy Schumer, Adele and Ariana Grande were allowed to bypass the detectors.

According to TMZ, things took a turn for the worst in April, when a black security officer told a member of Radiohead’s entourage that he had to go through the metal detectors. In turn, the man pulled down his pants, forcing another employee to step in, subsequently allowing the group to bypass security. However, when Hayes complained to upper management, Hayes said he was told, “Hip hop acts draw a different crowd and the white acts bring in more money.”

Ultimately, Hayes said that led to his firing, although his manager said he was let go for the way he spoke to his employees. He is suing for unspecified damages.

On the other hand, the Hawks refuted the claims saying Hayes “was terminated for poor performance and his claims are baseless.” “We will defend vigorously.”