A Disturbing Incident at a Popular Restaurant
In what is emerging as a contentious legal battle, a popular restaurant chain, Houston’s, finds itself at the center of a racial bias lawsuit. The incident, which took place in Memphis, Tennessee, involves a black couple, Dechandria Bass and Dwan Brown, who claim they were unjustly treated and humiliated because of their race.
Houston’s Restaurant in Memphis, Tennessee. ( Google Maps)
Racial Profiling Allegations: What Happened?
According to the couple, the manager of the Houston’s restaurant, identified as Kayla Hollins, confronted them with accusations of smelling of marijuana and asked them to leave the restaurant. In spite of their protestations and assurance that they did not smell like weed, they were escorted out of the restaurant by a police officer.
Their lawyer, Carlos Moore, asserts that his clients were victims of racial profiling. He is demanding $500,000 each in damages on behalf of Bass and Brown for the emotional distress they experienced due to the incident.
Potential History of Racial Bias/ Discrimination at Houston’s
The case takes a more disturbing turn when a policeman reportedly shared with the couple that Hollins had previous accusations of racism. This information, if true, paints a worrying picture of the restaurant’s potential treatment of its Black patrons and raises serious questions about its commitment to fair and equal treatment.
Houston’s Response: Denial of Discrimination
In response to these serious allegations, Houston’s parent company, Hillstone Restaurant Group, insists that they do not engage in any form of discrimination. While they have not offered any further comments on the ongoing litigation, their broad statement of non-discrimination does little to address the specific allegations levelled against them.
More Allegations: A Pattern of Behavior?
Since the filing of the lawsuit, another family has come forward with a strikingly similar story. They, too, allege that they were asked to leave the same Houston’s restaurant for purportedly smelling of marijuana. The accuser, Marcus Mosby, a 28-year veteran police officer, was incredulous at the allegations and has stated he has no plans to return to the restaurant.
Future Implications for Houston’s and Hillstone Restaurant Group
As this racial bias lawsuit continues to unfold, the actions of Houston’s and the Hillstone Restaurant Group will be scrutinized. If they are found guilty of racial bias, it could not only result in financial implications but also damage their reputation. Furthermore, it could lead to a broader conversation about racial discrimination in the hospitality industry.
