In May 2018, New York attorney Aaron Schlossberg became the center of national controversy after a video surfaced showing him reprimanding employees at a Manhattan café for speaking Spanish. In the widely circulated clip, Schlossberg suggested that the employees’ use of Spanish was “un-American” and threatened to call U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). The incident quickly drew public attention, with many viewers expressing concern over what they viewed as racially charged and xenophobic remarks.
The backlash was swift. Online platforms were flooded with negative reviews of Schlossberg’s law practice, and his landlord reportedly terminated his office lease. Activists and concerned New Yorkers organized a public protest outside his apartment on the Upper West Side, featuring mariachi music and Latin dance to promote inclusivity and solidarity. Additional footage later emerged suggesting that Schlossberg had exhibited similar confrontational behavior on previous occasions.
In response to the widespread criticism, Schlossberg issued a public apology, stating that his comments did not reflect who he truly is. He expressed regret for his behavior and voiced support for the diversity that defines New York City. Despite the apology, some critics questioned its sincerity, pointing to the damage already done to his professional standing and public image.
While no formal disciplinary action from legal authorities was publicly reported, the consequences for Schlossberg were significant. Beyond reputational harm, he faced a lawsuit from a former client who alleged that Schlossberg’s public conduct had negatively impacted their business. The episode sparked broader conversations about language, tolerance, and the responsibilities of professionals in the public eye.
