In a troubling incident that highlights ongoing issues of racial discrimination in banking, Michael Waller, a 64-year-old Black man, has filed a lawsuit against Commerce Bank after being falsely accused of fraud while attempting to open business accounts. This case is a stark reminder of the challenges many Black Americans face in financial institutions, often referred to as “banking while Black.”
The incident
Waller’s ordeal began on June 20, 2023, when he visited a Commerce Bank branch in Overland Park, Missouri, to open two business accounts. Despite being a long-time customer, he was met with skepticism from a white bank employee who claimed Waller needed more paperwork. After returning the next day with additional documents, he was again told he could not open the accounts.
Frustrated, Waller returned on June 27, only to be met with the same refusal. The employee questioned why he did not choose a branch closer to his home, and when Waller confronted him about potential prejudice, the situation escalated. The employee reported Waller to the bank’s fraud department and called the police, who arrived just as Waller was leaving the premises.
Impact of racial profiling
This incident not only caused Waller emotional distress but also instilled fear for his safety as he faced police intervention based on unfounded accusations. Fortunately, the police did not escalate the situation, allowing Waller to leave without further incident. However, the experience left a lasting impact, leading him to close his personal account with Commerce Bank and seek services elsewhere.
Legal action
Waller’s lawsuit, filed in Jackson County Court on Nov. 18, accuses Commerce Bank of racism and retaliation. He claims that the treatment he received was not only discriminatory but also damaging to his mental health and business prospects. The lawsuit outlines various forms of suffering, including emotional distress, humiliation and loss of income.
Waller’s registered businesses, Michael’s Gifts For You LLC and Waller’s Lawn Care Service LLC, were officially recognized by the Missouri Secretary of State on the same day he faced the police incident. This raises questions about the bank’s motives and the systemic issues that contribute to racial profiling in financial institutions.
Context of racial discrimination in banking
Overland Park, where the incident occurred, has a predominantly white population, with less than 5 percent identifying as Black. In contrast, Kansas City, where Waller resides, has a Black population exceeding 25 percent. This demographic disparity may have influenced the bank employee’s actions and the overall treatment Waller received.
Waller’s case is not an isolated incident; it reflects a broader pattern of discrimination faced by Black individuals in banking. Numerous reports have documented similar experiences, where Black customers are subjected to heightened scrutiny and suspicion compared to their white counterparts.
Current status of the lawsuit
As the lawsuit progresses, Commerce Bank has sought to change the judge assigned to the case without providing a clear explanation. The current judge, Circuit Court Judge Charles H. “Chip” McKenzie, will oversee the proceedings as Waller seeks justice for the alleged discrimination and emotional trauma he endured.
The case of Michael Waller serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by Black individuals in accessing financial services without prejudice. As Waller seeks accountability from Commerce Bank, his story underscores the need for systemic change within financial institutions to ensure equitable treatment for all customers, regardless of race.
