In a compelling legal battle, an Illinois man is challenging his former employer over allegations of racial discrimination and wrongful termination. Jaison White filed a lawsuit on March 12, 2025, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against Don't Worry Be Hoppy LLC, operating as Galena Brewing Company. The complaint accuses the company of violating Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Section 1981 by engaging in race-based discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.
The case details a troubling narrative where Jaison White, an African American employee, claims he was subjected to unfair treatment during his tenure at Galena Brewing Company. White began working as a server on September 6, 2024, but alleges that from the start until his termination on December 27, 2024, he faced discriminatory practices. "Plaintiff was subjected to different terms and conditions of employment than others not within Plaintiff's protected class," states the complaint. White further asserts that he was part of a dwindling number of African American employees at the company—three were either terminated under questionable circumstances or left due to perceived impending terminations.
White's complaint outlines incidents where he was allegedly treated differently than his Caucasian counterparts. He cites instances such as being scheduled for fewer shifts and receiving dismissive comments from management. One notable incident occurred on December 13, 2024, when White was reportedly left alone to manage all serving duties during a shift while other servers were absent without consequence. Despite these challenges, White maintains that he consistently met performance expectations and even received praise for his work ethic.
The lawsuit claims that these actions culminated in his wrongful termination via text message from his manager Eli on December 27, 2024. The reasons given for his dismissal included having "stronger servers" available and alleged dissatisfaction among coworkers—a rationale White disputes as unfounded given his positive performance record.
White seeks various forms of relief through this legal action. He is asking for back pay, loss of benefits compensation, front pay, compensatory and punitive damages, attorney fees and costs, pre-judgment interest if applicable, and any other relief deemed just by the court.
Representing Jaison White are attorneys Nathan C. Volheim and Sophia K. Steere from Sulaiman Law Group Ltd., based in Lombard, Illinois. The case has been assigned Case ID: 3:25-cv-50110 in the Northern District of Illinois' Western Division.