A former employee has filed a lawsuit against a major restaurant chain, alleging pregnancy discrimination and retaliation. Jenesis Johnson, the plaintiff, filed her complaint in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on December 23, 2024, accusing Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. of discriminatory practices under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act of 2023.
The case revolves around allegations that Chipotle Mexican Grill failed to accommodate Johnson's pregnancy and retaliated against her after she requested reasonable accommodations. According to the complaint, Johnson was employed as a Kitchen Leader from January 8, 2024, until her termination on September 4, 2024. She claims that upon informing her General Manager Jelisha Grady about her pregnancy in late August 2024, she faced hostility and discrimination. Johnson recounts an incident where Grady allegedly responded with aggression and threats when Johnson reported severe morning sickness and sought shift coverage. Despite attempting to find replacements for her shift due to illness, Johnson states she had no choice but to work while unwell.
Johnson's lawsuit accuses Chipotle of violating several laws by not accommodating her pregnancy-related needs and creating a hostile work environment based on sex discrimination. She further alleges that Grady's behavior changed dramatically after learning about her pregnancy, leading to wrongful termination without justification. The complaint highlights an instance where Grady purportedly threatened physical violence against Johnson before terminating her employment.
Following these events, Johnson reported the incidents to Human Resources (HR) on September 13, 2024. Her claims were corroborated by HR through video footage confirming Grady's aggressive conduct. Despite receiving an official termination letter on September 20, 2024, Chipotle contacted Johnson about returning to work on October 7, 2024. Although she returned due to financial necessity for her family, Johnson expressed ongoing fear of further discrimination and retaliation.
In seeking redress from the court, Johnson requests back pay with interest, compensatory and punitive damages for emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life caused by the alleged discrimination and harassment. She also seeks reasonable attorney fees and costs associated with bringing this action forward.
Representing Jenesis Johnson is attorney Travis P. Lampert from Sulaiman Law Group Ltd., while the presiding judge for this case is yet unnamed in the document provided. The case is identified as Case No: 1:24-cv-13170.