Kansas City Law Professor Files Discrimination Lawsuit Against Local Restaurant

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News Summary

Randall Johnson, a law professor from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, has sued Osteria Il Centro for alleged racial discrimination after he was denied service. The lawsuit claims that Johnson, the only nonwhite patron at the time, faced unequal treatment compared to his white colleagues. Additionally, his accusations involve the city’s Civil Rights department and multiple complaints against the restaurant from other customers. As the community watches the case unfold, it raises questions about civil rights and accountability in dining establishments.

Kansas City Law Professor Sues Local Restaurant Over Alleged Discrimination

In an unfolding story that has captured the attention of the Kansas City community, Randall Johnson, a Black law professor from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, has launched a lawsuit against the local restaurant Osteria Il Centro. The lawsuit, filed in Jackson County Circuit Court, claims that Johnson was denied service at the restaurant based on his race.

A Discriminatory Dining Experience?

On February 3, 2023, Johnson asserts he was the only nonwhite patron at Osteria Il Centro when he went out to dinner with four of his colleagues. Johnson alleges that the restaurant manager asked him to leave without giving any justification after he requested to buy a bottle of wine for his table. Despite his efforts to remain in the restaurant, he claims he was informed that he couldn’t sit at any available tables inside or at the bar. This treatment, he contends, was distinctly different from how his white colleagues were treated.

Involvement of Civil Rights Department

The lawsuit doesn’t just target the restaurant; it also implicates the city of Kansas City and Daniel O’Connor, a senior investigator from the city’s Civil Rights and Equal Opportunity department. Johnson’s legal claim suggests that O’Connor colluded with Osteria’s legal representatives to downplay his allegations during the complaint investigation process.

Challenges in the Grievance Process

After his unsettling experience at the restaurant, Johnson acted quickly, filing a discrimination complaint with the city within two days. He sought acknowledgment of his mistreatment and requested retraining for restaurant staff. However, following a lack of response from management, he escalated the issue to a formal complaint. Johnson accused O’Connor of discarding crucial evidence from previous investigators, neglecting to interview witnesses on his side, and even missing key points in the case.

Broader Complaints Against Osteria

Johnson’s case isn’t the only one raising eyebrows. There are additional complaints against Osteria Il Centro, where other diners, including two families, claim they experienced discriminatory treatment. These families reported being rushed through their meals with only 45 minutes to dine before being asked to leave. As the complaints remain open and unresolved, the city’s handling of the situation is increasingly under scrutiny.

Legal and Restaurant Implications

In the wake of these allegations, Osteria Il Centro has responded to feedback by revising its reservation policies, now allowing diners a time allotment of an hour and a half to enjoy their meals—a significant increase from the rushed experiences reported. However, the damage may have already been done, especially considering Johnson’s decision to file under the Missouri Commission on Human Rights, which led to a notice of right to sue.

A Need for Change

Johnson’s lawsuit raises important questions not only about the culture at Osteria Il Centro but also regarding how the city handles civil rights grievances. With no formal appeal process currently established for decisions made by the city’s Civil Rights and Equal Opportunity division, it seems likely that the city council may be prompted to reconsider its policies in light of these serious allegations.

What’s Next for Johnson?

Despite his attempts to retrieve all records related to his case through a Sunshine Law request, Johnson was met with a denial citing attorney-client privilege. This development adds another layer of frustration for him as he continues to navigate this challenging situation.

As the legal proceedings develop, the community watches closely. This case serves as a reminder of the ongoing conversation about race, equality, and the need for accountability in public spaces, shining a light on potential biases that can manifest in seemingly everyday scenarios.

As the lawsuit unfolds, all eyes are on Kansas City to see how it addresses these critical issues in its restaurant culture and civil rights practices.