McDonald’s Asks Judge To Dismiss Black Ex-Franchisees’ Discrimination Lawsuit

Topline

McDonald’s on Friday asked a judge to dismiss a landmark racial discrimination lawsuit filed earlier this year by more than 50 Black former franchisees, arguing that it had no incentive to let any of its locations fail.

Key Facts

Crucial Quote

“On its face, this claim is illogical as it suggests the company somehow has an interest in undermining its franchisees and seeing them fail. Success is promised to no one, and plaintiffs’ struggles—while regrettable—are simply not a basis for a claim against McDonald’s,” the filing says.

Surprising Fact

Former Attorney General Loretta Lynch, who served during the Obama administration, is on the McDonald’s defense team.

Key Background

This isn’t the only racial discrimination complaint filed against McDonald’s this year. A civil rights lawsuit in Illinois last week alleged managers at one store called Black workers derogatory names and subjected them to harsher punishment than white workers. And in January, two senior directors sued the company, alleging it fostered systemic racism in the corporate side of the business. McDonald’s has denied the allegations.