California Discrimination Complaint Process

Summary

In California, the Unruh Civil Rights Act protects individuals from discrimination in public accommodations, including restaurants. If you experience discrimination, you can file a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH). Additionally, contacting the businesss corporate office to report the incident is advisable. The complaint process with DFEH is generally free, and you can seek assistance from a complainants representative if needed. Keep a record of all communications and follow up if necessary.

Full Conversation

so I went to a fast food restaurant and the way I was treated, feel very discriminated and harassed and uncomfortable

I’m really sorry to hear you had such an experience, Jorge. Discrimination and harassment are serious issues. Could you please let me know which state you're in? This will help me provide you with more specific legal information.

california

Jorge, I'm sorry to hear about your experience. In California, there are laws protecting individuals from discrimination and harassment in public accommodations, including restaurants. Here are some key points:
- The Unruh Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on various characteristics, including race, gender, and disability.
- Businesses must provide equal services to all customers.
Could you provide more details on the nature of the discrimination and harassment you experienced?

employee who assisted me responded in a manner that felt discriminatory and unprofessional. He stated that store policy allowed him to give out only two hot sauces per order. refused my request. his demeanor during our interaction. He mentioned that he was “not going to lose his job just to give me hot sauce” and used inappropriate language towards me. This response was not only dismissive but also disrespectful. Furthermore, after I clarified my order and mentioned my partner, the employee began referring to me as “PAPI” with a smile. This term felt derogatory in context and made me feel uncomfortable, as if he were mocking me rather than providing customer service. I believe it is essential for all customers to be treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their requests or circumstances. The behavior exhibited by this employee does not align with the values of customer service that El Pollo Loco promotes.

Jorge, I'm really sorry to hear about your experience. In California, the Unruh Civil Rights Act protects individuals from discrimination in businesses, including restaurants. You might consider filing a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH).
Do you wish to pursue this matter legally or formally complain to the restaurant’s management?

yes\

Jorge, it sounds like you have a potentially strong case for a formal complaint. Here are steps you can take:
- File a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH).
- Contact El Pollo Loco’s corporate office to report the incident.
Would you like assistance with either of these steps?

yes

Jorge, since you want to pursue this matter, here are some details to help you:

California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH)

Website: www.dfeh.ca.gov

Would you like assistance filing the complaint with DFEH or contacting El Pollo Loco’s corporate office?

yes

Jorge, I'll guide you through filing a complaint with the DFEH and contacting El Pollo Loco's corporate office.

~California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH)
Website: [www.dfeh.ca.gov](http://www.dfeh.ca.gov)

~El Pollo Loco Corporate Office
Phone: (*) *-*
Would you like step-by-step help with the DFEH complaint or contacting El Pollo Loco first?

yes

Jorge, let's start with the DFEH complaint:
*. Go to [www.dfeh.ca.gov](http://www.dfeh.ca.gov)
*. Click on "File a Complaint"
*. Follow the prompts to complete the complaint form
For El Pollo Loco:
- Call (*) *-* to report the incident.
Would you like more detailed guidance for either step?

yes

Jorge, let's go into more detail:

Filing a Complaint with DFEH:
*. Visit [DFEH's website](http://www.dfeh.ca.gov).
*. Click on "File a Complaint."
*. Choose "Public Accommodations Discrimination."
*. Complete the required form with your details and incident description.

Contacting El Pollo Loco:
*. Call (*) *-*.
*. Ask to speak to a customer service representative.
*. Clearly describe the incident and mention the employee's behavior.
Would you like to proceed with both steps now?

yes

Jorge, you've taken the right steps so far. Here is more detailed guidance:

Filing a Complaint with DFEH:
*. Visit [DFEH's website](http://www.dfeh.ca.gov).
*. Click on "File a Complaint."
*. Select "Public Accommodations Discrimination."
*. Complete the form with your details and incident description.

Contacting El Pollo Loco:
*. Call (*) *-*.
*. Request to speak with a customer service representative.
*. Describe the incident and the employee's behavior.
Would you like assistance with any specific part of these steps?

yes

Jorge, I'll provide you with more detailed steps:

Contacting El Pollo Loco:
*. Call (*) *-*.
*. Request to speak with a customer service representative.
*. Describe the incident, including the employee’s behavior and the date and time.
Would you like help drafting your complaint or anything else?

yes

Jorge, here's how to draft your complaint:
DFEH Complaint:
*. Visit [DFEH's website](http://www.dfeh.ca.gov).
*. Click "File a Complaint."
*. Select "Public Accommodations Discrimination."
*. Fill in your details and describe the incident, including the employee’s specific actions and language used.
El Pollo Loco Complaint:
*. Call (*) *-*.
*. Request a customer service representative.
*. Clearly explain the incident, including the date, time, and employee’s behavior.
Would you like help with any other part of this process?

Jorge, it looks like you have the necessary steps to file your complaints. If you need any further assistance in the future or have more questions, feel free to reach out. Good luck with your complaints!

do I have to pay any monmey for this ?

Jorge, you don't have to pay any money for the assistance I've provided here. If you decide to file a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) or contact El Pollo Loco's corporate office, those processes are generally free. If you need further assistance, feel free to ask!

whata COMPLAINANT'S REPRESENTATIVE mean

A complainant's representative is someone who assists or represents the person making a complaint, often in legal or formal matters. This can include helping to prepare and file complaints, communicating with relevant authorities or organizations, and providing general support throughout the process.
Would you like to know more about how a complainant's representative can help in your specific situation?

who do I put as a Verifier Name

The verifier is typically someone who can confirm the details of your complaint, such as a witness. If you don't have one, you might leave it blank or ask the organization for guidance.
Would you like any further assistance with your complaint?

yes

Case Rating: *
Jorge, for the "Verifier Name," you generally need to provide the name of someone who can confirm the details of your complaint. This could be a witness to the incident or a person who can verify your account.
Would you like help finding a suitable verifier or any other part of the complaint process?

ok im done

Jorge, it looks like you've gathered a lot of information and are ready to proceed with your complaint. Remember, the DFEH complaint process is free, and you can contact El Pollo Loco without any cost. If you need further assistance or have more questions, feel free to reach out. Good luck!

what dpo I do next

Jorge, you've made excellent progress so far. Here are the next steps you can take:
*. Submit Your Complaint:
- Ensure you've filled out all required fields and provided detailed information on the DFEH website.
- Review your complaint for accuracy before submitting.
*. Follow Up:
- After submitting your complaint, keep track of any communication from DFEH.
- Follow up with El Pollo Loco's corporate office to ensure they've received your complaint and are taking appropriate action.
Do you need any further assistance with these steps?

yes

Jorge, it looks like you've made significant progress. Next, you should wait for a response from DFEH and El Pollo Loco. Keep a copy of all communications and follow up if you don't hear back within a reasonable time. If you need further assistance or experience any issues, feel free to reach out!

ok I iwll

Jorge, it sounds like you've taken the necessary first steps. Make sure to keep all your documentation and follow up with DFEH and El Pollo Loco. If you don't hear back or need more help, consider consulting a lawyer for further guidance. Good luck!

thank you so much

Jorge, you're on the right track. Remember to keep a copy of all your communications with DFEH and El Pollo Loco. If you don't hear back within a reasonable time, follow up. If you need further help or face any issues, don't hesitate to ask. Good luck!

I have added you to my favorites

Jorge, I'm glad to hear that you've added me to your favorites! If you have any more questions or need further assistance in the future, feel free to reach out. Have a great day!

California Discrimination Complaint Process

Summary

Full Conversation

California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH)

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