Four Tops Singer Sues Michigan Hospital for Racial Discrimination and Negligence

On April 7, 2023, Alexander Morris, the lead singer of Motown's Four Tops, visited Ascension Macomb-Oakland Hospital in Warren, Michigan, seeking medical care for breathing difficulties and chest pains. However, his visit took a disturbing turn when he was allegedly subjected to racial discrimination by hospital staff.

Despite informing a nurse and a security guard about his identity as a member of the Four Tops and expressing concerns about potential stalkers and fans, Morris claims that the staff did not believe him. Instead, they ordered a psychological evaluation, restrained him in a jacket, and removed his oxygen and belongings. Additionally, he was reportedly told to "sit his Black a** down" when offering to show his identification.

Struggle for Recognition

Morris encountered continued resistance even when his wife arrived at the hospital and verified his identity as a Four Tops member to a security guard. It was only after he showed a nurse a video of his performance at the Grammy Awards that his status was recognized, leading to the cancellation of the psychological evaluation.

Following the distressing incident, Morris filed a lawsuit against the hospital, the nurse, and the security guard, seeking more than $75,000 in damages and a jury trial. The suit alleges racial discrimination, deliberate misdiagnosis, and a lower standard of care based on his race, resulting in delayed medical treatment.

Allegations of Racism and Cover-up

The lawsuit further claims that a security guard at the hospital had a history of making racist comments and using excessive force with patients. Allegations of tampering with evidence in an internal incident report, including the removal of an account of a racial slur, have also been made.