Markesha Futrell-Smith is suing for discrimination after being asked to pay upfront for an order at a Chili’s restaurant in Denver. Furthermore, the manager allegedly accused her of dining and dashing in the past without providing any evidence.
In April, Futrell-Smith’s birthday celebration with her family at Chili’s became stressful, according to Essence.
In response, Futrell-Smith filed a discrimination charge with the Colorado Civil Rights Division, which determined that Chili’s violated state discriminatory laws in June. Futrell-Smith went a step further and filed a complaint against Chili’s parent company, Brinker International, on November 28, alleging racial discrimination.
According to the lawsuit, Futrell-Smith, her husband, and their two children were the only Black diners at the time, and after being seated, they waited about ten minutes before a manager demanded upfront payment. Notably, no other customers were subject to this requirement.
“Futrell-Smith was frustrated, angry, embarrassed, and humiliated in front of her family and the other patrons of the restaurant because of Chili’s false accusations,” according to the complaint. “Futrell-Smith is genuinely fearful that similar discrimination will occur to her and her children in the future based on their African-American race.”
Futrell-Smith seeks compensatory damages to the full extent permitted by law.
Meanwhile, Chili’s spokeswoman Jake Young issued a statement saying, “We cherish every Chili’s Guest and take the responsibility of creating an inclusive environment for all very seriously. We do not condone or allow any form of discrimination, as the safety and well-being of our team members and guests is our first priority.”