'They were Indian, so we didn’t count them': US cleaning business owner faces scrutiny over racial profiling

August 16, 2026 - 18:07

A US cleaning business owner is facing heavy backlash after reportedly telling staff to profile customers based on race and perceived social class. The controversy began when a recording surfaced of the owner saying, "They were Indian, so we didn't count them as a lead," and adding that the team was trained to judge who they were dealing with before taking the job.

The owner also made comments about giving a "partial refund" to a customer described as "a typical Karen," and said that clients from certain neighborhoods were asked to send photos of their homes because they were "ghetto." In the recording, the owner says, "I teach my team to profile every client. You need to know who's on the other side of the phone."

The remarks have sparked anger online, with many calling the practices racist and discriminatory. Civil rights advocates say that judging customers by their ethnicity or background is not only unethical but could also violate fair housing and anti-discrimination laws, depending on how the business operates.

The company has not yet issued a full public apology. Instead, the owner reportedly defended the approach, saying it was about protecting workers from difficult or risky clients. But critics argue that the logic is flawed and that profiling only reinforces harmful stereotypes.

Local business groups have distanced themselves from the owner, and some former clients have come forward to share their own experiences. One customer said she was asked for extra proof of her home's condition before a cleaning crew arrived, even though she had booked months in advance. She believes it was because of her address.

The story continues to gain attention, and many are waiting to see if any official action will be taken. For now, the owner's comments have become a case study in how unconscious bias can show up in everyday business decisions, and why treating every customer fairly should be the standard, not the exception.