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An Illinois man says he was subjected to racial harassment, including being called a “n—er," while he worked for Pilot Flying J as a maintenance worker.
According to Atlanta Black Star, Christopher Henson filed a lawsuit last month against Flying Travel Center LLC, the parent company of Pilot Flying J, which owns and operates truck stops in the U.S. and Canada, alleging racial discrimination, harassment, and retaliation.
Henson said the harassment began in December 2023, roughly a month after he started working for the company. According to the lawsuit, Henson was constantly subjected to racial slurs like the N-word while his managers were present.
After addressing the racial discrimination issues with his managers over the phone, false allegations were made against Henson, including that he possessed a firearm on work premises, the suit states. The claim was "thoroughly investigated and proven baseless," according to the suit.
Henson continued to be subjected to racial slurs and unjust disciplinary actions from team members. The former maintenance worker was later accused of being involved in drug-related activities, the suit states.
"This pattern of fabricated accusations aimed at terminating Plaintiff’s employment specifically played on racial tropes of African Americans being dangerous criminals," the lawsuit reads.
After months of harassment, Henson allegedly requested a transfer on March 21. However, he was fired less than a week later.
The lawsuit seeks back pay with interest, compensatory and punitive damages, and attorney fees.
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