Barneys, which has recently caught heat for two very public accusations of racial profiling against young African Americans, is planning to house Jay Z's forthcoming collection. Due to the recent claims, many are insisting that Jay Z pull his line from the luxury retail outlet, in an act of solidarity.

Jay Z's fashion line for the department store, which debuts Nov. 20, will boast $70 T-shirts and $34,000 watches. The high-end items are costly, but if you happen to be an African American attempting to purchase one of these items designed by the African American hip-hop icon, you might find that money wouldn't be the only obstacle.

Barneys New York (660 Madison Ave) was the site of these incidents. 19-year-old African American Trayvon Christian purchased a $349 Ferragamo belt from the store, and upon exiting was cuffed as a thanks for his patronage, accused of using a fraudulent credit card. Christian, who purchased the belt after seeing it worn by celebrities such as rapper Juelz Santana, said it was a quick trip, as he knew what he wanted. He quickly browsed, selected his belt, used his card to purchase, showed ID and signed, with no conflict. Then, he was met by security outside and taken to the 19th Precinct stationhouse. The second incident involved 21-year old Kayla Phillips, who described a similar experience as she purchased a $2,500 handbag,

An online protest at Change.org emerged, asking for Jay Z to step away from the department store.  And, the petition has already gained several thousand signatures.

"Without his vast wealth and brand power, they would see [Jay Z] the same as they see Trayon Christian," writes Derick Bowers, the protest's founder. "Jay Z should be appalled by Barneys' actions, and withdraw all support from them. If he does this, he will send a clear message to all corporations that are likeminded, that this behavior cannot be tolerated any longer."

Barneys CEO Mark Lee has tapped into the company's billions to hire an anti-discrimination expert to meet with Civil rights groups. Lee has personally dodged questions and comments since the incidents occurred, and has not respond to Reverend Al Sharpton's demand for a sit down.

Barneys has not admitted guilt, but did offer a lackluster apology on its Facebook page.

"Barneys New York believes that no customer should have the unacceptable experience described in recent media reports, and we offer our most sincere regret and deepest apologies," Facebook said. "To this end, we are conducting a thorough review of our practices and procedures as they relate to these matters to ensure that they reflect our continued commitment to fairness and equality."

Christian has filed a lawsuit against Barneys, and demands retribution.