[Archived] Human Rights Commission Announces a Decision in The Case: James W. McCray v. T.G.I. Friday’s

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   July 8, 2008      

Human Rights Commission Announces a Decision in The Case:
James W. McCray v. T.G.I. Friday’s

The Alexandria Human Rights Commission announced its decision in the case of James W. McCray v. T.G.I Friday’s/Carlson Restaurant. The case was presented before the Commission in a public hearing on May 31, 2008. In the case, Mr. McCray contended that his termination from his position as a General Manager of a T.G.I. Friday’s restaurant located in Alexandria was an act of discrimination based on disability, in violation of Section 12-4-5 of the City Code, which prohibits discrimination in employment. The Alexandria Office of Human Rights investigated the allegations and found reasonable cause to believe discrimination had occurred. The claim could not be conciliated.

After the hearing, the Commission deliberated and announced its decision. The Commission found unanimously that T.G.I Friday’s had indeed discriminated against Mr. McCray, according to the protections afforded to him under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Human Rights Code for the City of Alexandria.

The Human Rights Commission, in accordance with Section 12-4-21 of the Alexandria Human Rights Code, announced in public on June 30 its determination, and now must issue a written decision on or before July 30, 2008 setting forth the facts, the reasons for the Commission’s determination, and recommended remedies. Although the Commission's authority is limited with respect to recommending compensatory damages, it is possible that the Commission will recommend other specific remedies, including the levying of civil penalties against the Respondent company. The Complainant, Mr. McCray, may also file a complaint in federal court under the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The Alexandria City Council created the Human Rights Commission in 1975 to advise the City Council on matters related to human rights affecting the City, and to oversee the Office of Human Rights.  The Office of Human Rights enforces the Alexandria Human Rights Ordinance, which prohibits discrimination based on age, race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, gender, sexual orientation, familial status, or disability. 

The City of Alexandria is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request materials in an alternative format, please contact Mike Hatfield at 703.519.3357, Virginia Relay 711, or e-mail at mike.hatfield@alexandriava.gov.