Cracker Barrel Recently Sued for Sexual Harassment

Friday April 10, 2009

Cracker Barrel Old Country Stores, which are based in Lebanon, Tennessee and have nearly 600 locations throughout the Southern and Midwestern states must pay $225,000 to settle a sexual harassment suit brought by several of its female employees. The suit itself was filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

The suit charged that male managers and employees made several unwanted sexual jokes and lewd remarks to female employees. When the women complained to the managers and called Cracker Barrel’s 800 number complaint line, they were further harassed and were forced to work in areas within the restaurant where tips were low.

Because of this retaliation and because of Cracker Barrel’s failure to put a stop to the harassment, the women were able to win their case. The EEOC first attempted to reach a voluntary settlement with the restaurant chain, but had to eventually take them to court.

The suit will require, on top of the payment to the victims, that the company conduct annual training on sexual harassment and retaliation for all of its employees. It must also maintain records of and report complaints of harassment for three years. It must also post a statement saying that it will investigate anonymous claims of sexual harassment and notify employees about the settlement.

Sources: http://www.newschannel5.com/Global/story.asp?S=10163954