Former Cracker Barrel Employee Files Federal Discrimination Lawsuit
*Roberta Mendez, a Black former server, has filed a lawsuit against Cracker Barrel. If you’re curious as to why, the complaint, filed in federal court in Tennessee, alleges racial harassment, discrimination, and retaliation under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.
Mendez worked at a Cracker Barrel near Nashville from 2015 until her termination in September 2024.
She claims she endured nearly a decade of abuse before being wrongfully fired after reporting her concerns to corporate HR.
Roberta Mendez Alleges Years of Racist Abuse
The lawsuit details multiple incidents of verbal harassment from white coworkers and supervisors. She was allegedly called slurs such as “nappy-headed [N-word],” “burnt biscuit,” “monkey,” and “b***h.”
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One shift leader allegedly told her directly: “I don’t like Black people.” According to Mendez, managers ignored her complaints and instead wrote her up for speaking out.
Claims of Physical Assaults and Segregated Workspaces
Mendez also reported being shoved and hit by white coworkers on several occasions. Despite reporting the incidents, no investigations or disciplinary action were taken.
Her lawsuit claims the restaurant fostered segregation by assigning Black and white employees to separate sections. Seating and shift duties allegedly reflected this racial divide, with management allowing or directing the practice.
Termination After Speaking Out Against Discrimination
After submitting complaints in 2023 and 2024, Mendez says she faced retaliation instead of protection. She was terminated on September 28, 2024, for a vague “policy violation.”
Mendez maintains she always met or exceeded company expectations. She claims white colleagues with more serious issues faced no penalties, underscoring systemic bias in the workplace.
Lawsuit Seeks Damages and Workplace Reforms
The federal lawsuit demands compensatory and punitive damages, back pay, and injunctive relief. It argues Cracker Barrel failed to investigate or address a hostile work environment, violating federal anti-discrimination laws.
The case is ongoing in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Tennessee. If unresolved, it could proceed to mediation or trial.
Cracker Barrel’s Troubled History With Discrimination Claims
This is not the first time Cracker Barrel has faced racial bias allegations. The company has paid millions in past settlements over similar accusations.
- 2004: Paid nearly $9 million to settle a class-action suit involving over 40 Black employees and customers across 16 states.
- 2006: Paid $2 million after an EEOC case involving race and sexual harassment in Illinois locations.
- 2022: A viral TikTok exposed the use of coded language like “Canadians” to avoid serving Black customers.
Each case damaged Cracker Barrel’s reputation and forced it to implement mandatory training and oversight measures. However, the recurrence of lawsuits suggests deep-rooted issues remain unresolved.
Cracker Barrel Yet to Respond Publicly
As of this posting (09-13-25), Cracker Barrel has not released a statement regarding Mendez’s lawsuit. Historically, the company has settled cases without admitting wrongdoing.
The hospitality chain, with Southern roots, faces renewed scrutiny over racial equity in its workplaces. The outcome of this case could shape how similar claims are addressed across the restaurant industry.
Why This Case Resonates Beyond One Restaurant
Mendez’s lawsuit underscores ongoing challenges around workplace equity in the service industry. Chains like Cracker Barrel, which cater to diverse customers, face pressure to ensure their workplaces reflect fairness and inclusion.
The case highlights how unchecked harassment and retaliation can persist for years, with devastating effects on employees’ livelihoods. For many, it is a reminder of the urgent need for stronger protections against discrimination.
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