Customers Sue Walgreens Seeking More Than $10 Million for Racial Discrimination in Reno Store

Business Wire, Dec 7, 2005

RENO, Nev. -- Ian E. Silverberg of Hardy Law Group gave the status on an upcoming trial against Walgreens Co. Silverberg said, "Discovery is almost done and we're preparing for trial May 8, 2006. The plaintiffs from Houston filed suit against Walgreens based on discriminatory treatment back in February 2003."

They alleged that while shopping at Walgreens a store clerk became hostile toward them when asked about photos they were purchasing. The clerk became hostile and used racial slurs and refused service, displaying anger by slamming a door and storming out of Walgreens into the dark, setting off the store's alarm while his manager witnessed his behavior.

Although Deerfield, Ill.-based Walgreens claimed in a written statement that corrective measures would be taken, no such action has been taken. The employee, in a written statement, admitted his hostile behavior was never reprimanded and he is still currently employed by Walgreens, the plaintiffs believe.

The plaintiffs questioned Walgreens' policy of zero tolerance for any type of discrimination. At what point would Walgreens policy be enforced? Sadly, simply "old-fashioned" good customer service would have alleviated the plaintiffs' distress and loss of dignity.

Silverberg believes this case has focused attention on Walgreens as a company that engages in racial discrimination, racial profiling, and other misconduct directed at African-American customers and employees.

Other allegations of consumer discrimination have been filed in other cities, said Silverberg. Eleven current and former employees filed suit against Walgreens alleging the drugstore chain discriminates against African-Americans in hiring, work assignments and promotion.

On Nov. 29, 2005, three customers and three former clerks of Walgreens filed suit in Chicago with claims of bias and consumer profiling of black customers.

"We are very committed to our civil rights and the rights of others," said Bruce Johnson, Cadarell Freeman, Mark Mills, and Michael Price, the plaintiffs, who are all seeking compensatory and punitive damages against Walgreens for violation of their civil rights.

They also seek reimbursement of all attorneys' fees and cost.

This case is being closely monitored by leaders of the NAACP and American Civil Liberties Union officials.