Alexander Morris, Four Tops Lead Singer, Sues Michigan Hospital for Racial Discrimination

Alexander Morris, a member of the iconic Motown group The Four Tops, has filed a lawsuit against Ascension Macomb Oakland Hospital in Warren, Michigan, alleging racial discrimination and mistreatment during a medical emergency in April 2023.

Morris claims Michigan Hospital staff halted his treatment, placed him in restraints, and subjected him to a psychiatric evaluation after he disclosed his identity as a famous singer.

According to the lawsuit filed in the Eastern District of Michigan, Morris visited the hospital seeking treatment for chest pain and breathing difficulties, USA Today reports.

Upon revealing his affiliation with The Four Tops, Morris alleges staff assumed he was mentally unstable and took actions that delayed his medical care.

He claims a security guard made racially derogatory remarks and restrained him against his will, exacerbating his medical distress.

Legal Claims and Michigan Hospital Response

Alexander Morris's lawsuit includes claims of racial discrimination, negligence, battery, false imprisonment, emotional distress, and violations of disability and civil rights laws.

In response to queries, Ascension declined to comment on the ongoing legal matter but reiterated its commitment to non-discriminatory practices and patient well-being.

During Morris's hospitalization, he was diagnosed with a heart attack requiring potential transplantation and pneumonia, according to STATS.

The lawsuit alleges that despite his deteriorating condition and clear medical history, staff delayed necessary treatments and disregarded his pleas for medical attention.

Morris also experienced seizures during his stay, adding to the severity of his ordeal.

Staff Involved and Allegations

The lawsuit specifically names Holly Jackson, a nurse, and Greg Ciesielski, a security guard, as defendants.

Morris accuses Jackson of negligence in denying him treatment and failing to address Ciesielski's alleged use of racial slurs and excessive force.

The incident, which Morris describes as distressing and humiliating, underscores systemic issues of racial bias in healthcare settings.

As a member of The Four Tops, Morris is part of Motown's musical legacy, known for hits like "I Can't Help Myself" and "Reach Out I'll Be There."

His lawsuit reflects broader concerns about racial profiling and mistreatment of Black patients in healthcare, echoing nationwide discussions on systemic racism and healthcare disparities, The New York Times noted.

Morris's legal representatives emphasize the emotional toll and long-term implications of his traumatic experience at the Michigan Hospital.

Despite attempts to clarify his identity through a video demonstration, Morris alleges continued mistreatment until staff finally acknowledged his status and adjusted their approach to his care.

The lawsuit filed by Alexander Morris against Ascension Macomb Oakland Hospital highlights issues of racial discrimination and inadequate healthcare responses faced by Black patients.

As the legal proceedings unfold, Morris seeks justice and accountability for what he describes as a traumatic and unjust ordeal during a medical emergency.

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Ross Key

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