Chick-fil-A, famously closed on Sundays, sued for religious discrimination

Chick-fil-A is widely recognized for its policy of closing on Sundays—a tradition established by founder S. Truett Cathy in 1946. However, a Texas franchise operator is now facing a lawsuit from the federal government, alleging that the company failed to respect an employee's religious observance of a different Sabbath.

Federal Lawsuit Filed

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has initiated legal action against Hatch Trick Inc., an Austin-based Chick-fil-A franchisee. According to reporting by The Wall Street Journal, the lawsuit stems from a 2023 hiring agreement involving employee Laurel Torode. A member of the United Church of God, Torode was reportedly assured she could remain off from Friday at sunset through Saturday to observe her faith.

Dispute Over Sabbath Observance

The lawsuit alleges that while the arrangement was initially honored, the operator later demanded that Torode work on Saturdays. After refusing, Torode was allegedly offered a demotion to a delivery driver role, which would have resulted in reduced pay, fewer hours, and diminished benefits. Despite proposing several alternative solutions, Torode was ultimately terminated.

"The duty under federal law to provide reasonable accommodation of religion reflects an acknowledgement by our society of the importance of faith in workers’ everyday lives," said EEOC Dallas Regional Attorney Ronald L. Phillips. "Just as adherence to the dictates of one’s own conscience is not optional, so too an employer’s duty under Title VII is obligatory."

Company Culture and Legal Claims

While the company’s website emphasizes that Sunday closures provide employees with time for rest, family, or worship, the suit asserts that the franchise violated the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The filing contends that Torode was unlawfully denied religious accommodation and fired due to her beliefs.

As 205focus.com reports, the lawsuit seeks a jury trial, with Torode asking for back pay, reinstatement to her previous seniority, and compensation for mental anguish and emotional suffering.