Restaurant work can offer a level of flexibility and financial gain that is hard to beat. Those who go into this field can earn a solid income while having time to pursue other things, whether hobbies or professional opportunities. Employees within this profession, like most other workers, have the right to be free from illegal discrimination and sexual harassment.
Unfortunately, violations of these rights are not uncommon.
In a recent example, the famous Japanese restaurant Nobu in Malibu is facing not one but two lawsuits alleging wrongdoing. Both lawsuits state that hostesses within the restaurant were subject to repeat instances of sexual harassment from supervisors and patrons and that the restaurant encourages hostesses and serves to flirt with clientele and to wear “scantily clad black uniforms.” In the most recent lawsuit, the hostess has accused the restaurant and its supervisor and former bar manager of battery, gender discrimination, and retaliation.
In this case, the employee is seeking $500,000 and attorney fees.
This is not the first lawsuit against the famous restaurant chain. Other employees have previously accused the restaurant of failure to pay employees for hours worked, failure to provide legally required breaks, and failure to pay for overtime. It is important for workers to take action whether the victim of sexual harassment, discrimination, or failure to meet other rights.
What should I do if my employer violates my rights?
If the issue is sexual harassment, it is important to document and report the behavior to a supervisor or to Human Resources. If the issue continues or if the Employer fails to take prompt remedial action, it is generally wise to seek legal counsel to review your options.