The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has filed a lawsuit against Simply Slims, L.L.C., and Dixie Chicken, L.L.C., with the name Slim Chickens in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The agency alleges that the restaurant owners allowed a shift manager to subject a group of teens and young adults to sexual harassment and created a sexually hostile work environment, defying federal law. This information is according to a lawsuit filed by the EEOC reported by JD Supra.
The case underscores the sometimes troubling and complex issues inherent in handling employees’ complaints about inappropriate behavior at the workplace. It highlights once again the importance of businesses and organizations having in place strong policies, procedures, and training programs designed to prevent sexual harassment and to respond quickly and effectively when such allegations arise.
Slim Chickens is alleged to have violated these principles despite receiving complaints about the shift manager’s conduct. The EEOC further accused the restaurant of maintaining a sexually hostile work environment, which federal law strictly forbids.
In response to the allegations, businesses of all types – whether in restaurant service or other sectors – can use this case as a reason to review their current policies and training programs. They can consider steps to counteract such behaviors and to ensure they foster a safe and respectful workplace for all of their employees – particularly for those who are typically most vulnerable to sexual harassment, such as teens and young adults entering the workforce.