Trial Ordered in CIvil Rights Claim Against Yankees

Trial Ordered in Civil Rights Suit Against Yankees

Court rules patron's claims of discrimination in restaurant valid cause of action

New York, October 27, 2000 -- Flush with their third consecutive world championship and their fourth title in the last five years, the New York Yankees can lose -- in a court of law.

A federal judge ruled that the team must go to trial in a civil rights lawsuit filed by a black woman who claims she was denied entry into the Stadium Club restaurant, located in Yankee Stadium. The woman, Whitney Joseph, alleged that the team denied her entry into the establishment because her attire violated its dress code, while white patrons dressed in a similar fashion were allowed entry. Plaintiff is seeking relief under the federal and New York State civil rights law.

Ms. Joseph wore shorts and a "tank top" (which plaintiff described as "sweater knit … sleeveless … a small V-neck"), was stopped at the entrance and told by a ticket taker that her tank top did not comport with the Stadium Club’s dress code. She claims—and that claim was supported by two of her friends—that non-minority women inside the club were wearing tank tops and clothing "skimpier" than hers, including a "spaghetti strap top," a "midriff, no sleeve top," and a "backless, no sleeve top."

The Yankees sought to dismiss the case, claiming that the plaintiff suffered not damages, as she ultimately was served after putting a t-shirt. The court rejected that request, noting that issues of fact existing as to whether the discrimination was intentional and whether that delay in service could have affected the plaintiff's rights.

To read the decision, click here.