In a resolution that addresses a significant EEOC sexual harassment lawsuit, Swami's Café and Honey’s Bistro, both San Diego County eateries, have agreed to pay $650,000 to settle. This decision comes as a response to allegations that a group of young female employees experienced ongoing sexual harassment by male supervisors and coworkers, according to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The lawsuit, filed on behalf of these young women, has now culminated in not only a financial settlement but also mandated changes to workplace policies and procedures. Further details can be found on the EEOC's website.
The claims originated as early as 2019, with the EEOC noting that nine locations of Swami's Café and Honey’s Bistro failed to provide a secure environment for their female staff members. The young women, including some teenagers, were reportedly subjected to "repeated, frequent and offensive sex-based remarks and advances," alongside unwanted physical contact. This environment allegedly persisted due to inadequate supervision and accountability measures. As a result, when employees complained they faced retaliation or felt compelled to leave their positions, the EEOC outlined.
Anna Park, regional attorney for the EEOC's Los Angeles District Office, emphasized the ongoing issue of sexual harassment within the restaurant sector, particularly for young women embarking on their first job. Park underlined the need for employers to enforce robust policies ensuring a safe and respectful workplace. This sentiment was echoed by Jacquelyn Famber, director of the EEOC's San Diego office, who commended the courage of the women who stepped forward. Famber's statement, obtained by the EEOC, stated, "The injunctive relief in this decree is an excellent step forward for Swami’s Café and Honey Bistro, and it would behoove other employers to take note of the relief furnished in this case and implement similar changes as necessary."
As a part of the consent decree, which was approved by U.S. District Judge Benjamin J. Cheeks on Dec. 1, Swami’s Café and Honey’s Bistro are required to introduce several reforms. These include hiring an EEO monitor and establishing a toll-free complaint hotline, along with comprehensive procedures for reporting and managing all claims of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Mandatory training for both supervisory and non-supervisory staff members will also be instituted. Moreover, the companies must conduct regular record-keeping, audits, and clear any wrongful terminations from employee records. They will also offer reinstatement opportunities to those who were fired or resigned because of the harassment incidents.
With these steps, Swami's Café and Honey’s Bistro aim to move beyond the detrimental impacts of the lawsuit and foster a diverse and equitable work environment. As monitoring continues under the court's jurisdiction for two years, the impact and effectiveness of these measures will unfold over time. For more on sexual harassment and youth employment rights, the public can access resources provided by the EEOC’s Youth@Work website, or contact the EEOC at 800-669-4000 for further information or to report workplace discrimination.
