Kitchen Worker Sues Award-Winning Pub Over Vinegar as Alleged Racial Slur
A black kitchen porter at a renowned pub in Surrey initiated a race discrimination lawsuit, alleging that colleagues left bottles of vinegar near him because it rhymes with a racial slur. The employment tribunal, however, dismissed all claims, stating they were based on misinterpretation or had innocent explanations.
Details of the Discrimination Allegations
Willer Lafeuillee, of black Caribbean heritage, worked at The Running Horses pub in Dorking, Surrey, for only a few weeks before being dismissed for unprofessional and confrontational behavior. He asserted that placing vinegar bottles near him was a deliberate act to reference the N-word, intended to send a discriminatory message. Additionally, he accused the pub of discrimination by serving him an overdone steak during a staff meal.
The tribunal found the vinegar allegation too vague and removed it from the disputed incidents. Regarding the steak, the pub explained that orders were processed through an anonymous system, so the chef was unaware of the customer's identity. Lafeuillee became angry when his well-done steak was undercooked, leading to a disruptive scene where he shouted at staff and refused to pay.
Other Claims and Tribunal Ruling
Lafeuillee further alleged discrimination based on music played in the pub, such as songs by Biggie Smalls and Kanye West containing the N-word. He also claimed harassment from a colleague serving him a drink in a London Pride glass and another using the phrase "Yabba Dabba Doo" from The Flintstones.
Employment Judge Fowell dismissed all claims, noting the pub's diverse workforce and the restraint shown towards Lafeuillee. The judge concluded that the incidents were largely misinterpreted or had innocent explanations, emphasizing the lack of evidence for racial discrimination.
Background on the Pub and Dismissal
The Running Horses, operated by Little & Large Inns, was named the UK's National Pub & Bar of the Year in 2023. Lafeuillee was fired after multiple aggressive incidents, with management citing erratic behavior that posed a danger to staff. Prior to dismissal, he received a verbal warning for his conduct during the steak incident.
This case highlights the challenges in proving workplace discrimination and the importance of clear evidence in employment tribunals.
