North Carolina Hooters Facing Lawsuit For Allegedly Discriminating Against Darker Skinned Employees

Hooters restaurant chain is in legal trouble for discrimination.

In March 2020, due to the pandemic, the Hooters establishment in Greensboro, N.C., had to lay off over 40 workers. However, when the restaurant commenced the rehiring process, the EEOC filed a lawsuit claiming that the restaurant selectively hired more lighter skin tones or those who were White.

Before the layoffs, over half of the Hooters Girls were identified as Black or having “dark skin tones.” However, this representation had a 8% decrease following the rehire.

Additionally, the complaint alleges that darker Hooters Girls encountered racial hostility and witnessed favoritism towards White employees while working at the restaurant.

“When recalling employees from a layoff. It is critical that employers examine their selection criteria to ensure they are objectively verifiable and free from racial bias,” Melinda C. Dugas, regional attorney for the EEOC’s Charlotte District, said. “Federal law protects employees from race-based decision-making in the terms of employment including in layoff, recall and hiring decisions.”

Described as “proud ambassadors” of the Hooters brand, Hooters Girls predominantly constitute the restaurant’s youthful female wait staff.

Managers reportedly implied that Hooters Girls with lighter skin tones were more “presentable.” But they also allegedly made derogatory jokes about the appearances of dark-skinned employees. The alleged actions are in violation of worker discrimination laws stated in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Nevertheless, the agency is pursuing back pay, compensatory and punitive damages.