According to the complaint filed by her attorney Anthony J. Peraica & Associates, Ltd., Cristina Barrera began working as a housekeeper for Loews in August 2008. She sustained a back injury on July 23, 2021, leading to temporary total disability benefits until January 11, 2023.
Upon returning to work in March 2023 with medical restrictions, she provided documentation requesting accommodations which were denied by Loews. Subsequently, her employment was terminated effective September 12, 2023.
The plaintiff claims that she faced different terms and conditions of employment compared to non-Hispanic and non-disabled employees. She asserts that her termination was retaliatory following her exercise of rights under the ADA and Illinois Workers Compensation Act. As a result of these actions by Loews, Ms. Barrera alleges significant damages including lost income and emotional distress.
Ms. Barrera has filed a lawsuit against Loews COH Operating Company, LLC, doing business as Loews Chicago O'Hare Hotel, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, Eastern Division. The case ID is 24-cv-3883 and was filed on May 13, 2024.
The plaintiff seeks judgment against Loews for lost wages and benefits (past and future), compensatory and punitive damages, interest, attorney’s fees, court costs, and other relief deemed proper by the court.