A Fired Worker Takes On Chick-fil-A In Religious Discrimination Case

(KMDL-FM) Chick-fil-A, the popular fried chicken chain that is famously closed on Sundays, is being sued for religious discrimination. The lawsuit, filed in Texas, doesn't call into question the chain's decision to shutter stores on Sunday, but it does call into question at least one franchisee's hiring and firing decisions.

READ MORE: Why Are Car Dealerships Closed on Sunday in Louisiana? 

The legal action that has been brought against Hatch Trick Inc, a Chick-fil-A franchisee in the Austin, Texas area, suggests a worker was dismissed from their position with the restaurant for refusing to work on Saturdays because of their religious beliefs.

A story on the case published by the Wall Street Journal suggests the fired employee, Laurel Torode, a member of the United Church of God, made her religious belief known to management before she was hired by the restaurant in 2023.

Chick-fil-A Lawsuit: Employee Fired For Religious Beliefs

According to those close to the case, Torode informed Chick-fil-A management that she would need to be off from sunset on Fridays through Saturday to observe her Sabbath. That arrangement was honored when Torode agreed to accept the position.

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However, the suit alleges that Torode was later told by management that working on Saturdays would be a condition of her employment. When she refused, the suit alleges that Torode was offered a demotion to a lower-paying position with fewer benefits and fewer hours.

Isn't Religion The Reason Chick-fil-A Closes on Sundays?

Of course, the conundrum in all of the legal mumbo jumbo is the overarching fact that Chick-fil-A famously closes its doors on Sundays so that employees can have "one day of rest, enjoy time with their families and loved ones, or worship if they choose."

The case was filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission of Texas. Torode is seeking back pay, reinstatement to her position, and seniority status, as well as compensation for emotional pain, suffering, mental anguish, and more. Torode has asked that this case be heard by a jury.