The Fresno Grizzlies, known for their exciting baseball games and fun promotions, are now at the center of controversy. Why, you may ask? Well, it all started with their “Ladies Night” event back in May of 2023.
The plaintiffs in the case, Christine Johnson and Harry Crouch are seeking $5 million in damages.
The 23-page complaint claims that the Grizzlies violated the Unruh Civil Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination regardless of age, race, religion, disability, sex or sexual orientation.
Legal Analyst Kevin Little said that type of promotion can be a gamble when it comes to legal challenges.
“But if it’s a ladies night, and it clearly entitles women,” said Little. “Just by virtue of being women, to get in at a free, either free or at a reduced price relative to men. You run the risk of these sorts of lawsuits.”
The plaintiffs on the case are Christine Johnson and Harry Crouch.
The complaint said that Crouch paid $18 dollars to get into the stadium, while Johnson got into the game for free.
They’re now seeking $5 million in damages.
“But if as the complaint indicates, it was an event that was promoted as providing a differential entry fee for men versus women, it would presumptively violate the Unruh,” said Little.
So, where does this leave us now? Well, it’s safe to say that the Fresno Grizzlies are in hot water and will have to navigate their way through this legal battle. Whether or not the event truly discriminated against any group remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure – this controversy has certainly put a damper on what was supposed to be a fun night.
