Discrimination Allegations Surface at Former La Mercerie Restaurant in NYC
A lawsuit filed by former servers at La Mercerie, the now-closed restaurant in New York City, alleges a disturbing pattern of racial discrimination masked as restructuring. The claims center around the restaurant’s transition from management by Starr Restaurants to Roman & Williams, and the subsequent re-hiring process. This article dives into the allegations, the response from those involved, and the broader context of labor disputes surrounding Starr Restaurants.
The Core of the Allegation: A “Clean House” of Minority Employees?
The lawsuit contends that the layoffs announced during the management change were a pretext. Plaintiffs allege that Roman & Williams‘ owners, Robin Standefer and Steven Alesch, used the transition to deliberately exclude minority employees.
Specifically, the complaint states:
* Around 20 servers were employed before the shift.
* Most were offered positions with the new management, Restaurant Associates, under Standefer and Alesch.
* Though, nearly all minority servers – including the three plaintiffs – were not rehired.
* One plaintiff, Arias, was reportedly told she didn’t “fit the restaurant’s ‘vision’.”
These allegations paint a picture of intentional discrimination, suggesting the restaurant sought to alter its staff demographics based on race.
History of Alleged Bias
The former servers further claim this wasn’t an isolated incident. They allege a long-standing history of “blatant racist behavior” from Standefer and Alesch, particularly in staffing decisions. The lawsuit details accusations that the owners expressed concerns about having “to many Puerto Ricans” among the staff, referencing the limited number of Latinx employees hired over time.
Roman & Williams Denies the Claims
In a statement,Roman & Williams vehemently denied the allegations,calling them “factually erroneous.” They clarified that the employees in question were employed by Starr Restaurants, not their firm. They maintain they are firmly opposed to any form of bias and categorically misstated the facts.
Plaintiffs’ Counsel Stands Firm
Maimon Kirschenbaum, the attorney representing the plaintiffs, disputes Roman & Williams’ assertion. She states all employees were rehired by Restaurant Associates except her clients. Kirschenbaum attributes this exclusion to what she describes as “Robin’s racist predilections,” suggesting the management change was exploited to conceal discriminatory practices. She notes that approximately six non-white employees out of a group of 20 servers were not offered new positions.
Starr Restaurants’ Own Labor Issues
While Starr Restaurants isn’t directly named as a defendant in this lawsuit, the company has faced its own legal challenges. The National Labor relations Board (NLRB) is currently pursuing charges against Starr and STARR Restaurants related to alleged union-busting tactics at its Washington D.C. steakhouse, St. Anselm.
This stems from a nearly year-long dispute with Unite Here Local 25, a union representing over 7,500 hospitality workers in D.C. The NLRB charges represent the latest development in a contentious standoff. Starr Restaurants declined to comment on the ongoing matter.
What This Means for You
If you’re a diner, hospitality worker, or simply someone interested in fair labor practices, this case highlights the importance of vigilance. It underscores the potential for discrimination to occur even within seemingly upscale establishments.
Here’s what you should consider:
* Be aware of your rights: Understand your protections against discrimination in the workplace.
* Support ethical businesses: Consider supporting restaurants and companies with a demonstrated commitment to diversity and fair labor practices.
* Stay informed: follow developments in labor disputes and discrimination cases within the hospitality industry.
This case is ongoing, and further developments will undoubtedly emerge. We will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
Resources:
* Eater NY – Babbo Reopening Labor fight
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