Arley Livingston has filed a lawsuit against his former employer, alleging race-based discrimination and harassment. The complaint was lodged in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on December 23, 2024, targeting HC Management Lombard LLC, which operates as Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse.
The plaintiff, Arley Livingston, an African American line cook, claims that during his employment at Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse from October 2022 until his termination in September 2024, he faced racial discrimination and a hostile work environment. According to the complaint, Livingston alleges that he was subjected to derogatory remarks and preferential treatment towards non-African American employees by Armando, a sous chef at the restaurant. Livingston reports that Armando expressed a preference for an all-Mexican kitchen staff and referred to him in a condescending manner using terms like “mija,” which means “my daughter.” Additionally, Livingston recounts incidents where a fellow line cook used racial slurs against him. Despite reporting these incidents to management figures such as Chef Roberto and Armando himself, Livingston claims no action was taken to address his grievances.
Livingston's complaint further details how Mexican employees were allegedly favored with more work hours despite his superior experience and commitment. On September 18, 2024, after arriving late due to an emergency—a rare occurrence according to Livingston—he was terminated by Armando for tardiness. This action is contrasted with the regular lateness of other employees who reportedly faced no repercussions.
Livingston accuses HC Management Lombard LLC of violating several laws including Section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title VII of the same act by engaging in race-based discrimination and retaliation. He seeks redress through various forms of relief including back pay, compensatory damages, punitive damages, attorney fees, and other equitable remedies deemed appropriate by the court.
Representing Arley Livingston is Nathan C. Volheim from Sulaiman Law Group Ltd., while details about the defendant's legal representation remain undisclosed. The case is presided over under Case ID: 1:24-cv-13150.