The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination reached a settlement with Merritt Hospitality LLC, operating as HEI Hotels and Resorts at the Liberty Hotel, following allegations of gender and sexual orientation-based discrimination. The case stemmed from a May incident during a Kentucky Derby-themed event, when a security guard questioned a woman’s gender identity in the restroom and removed her and her companion from the premises, according to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
MCAD Chairwoman Sunila Thomas George stated, “This outrageous incident at the Liberty Hotel left these two women emotionally shaken, humiliated, and deeply distressed.” As part of the settlement, the hotel agreed to update its non-discrimination policy, conduct anti-discrimination training for employees, and donate $10,000 to an LGBTQIA2S+ nonprofit, as reported by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
MCAD Executive Director Michael Memmolo said, “At a time when protections for gender identity and sexual orientation are being challenged nationally, the MCAD remains committed to upholding these rights and holding businesses accountable to the law.” The case was handled by the MCAD Office of the General Counsel, with Senior Commission Counsel Supervisor Wendy Cassidy leading the prosecution. More information about the resolution is available on the Commonwealth of Massachusetts government website.
