A Boston hotel has reached a settlement with the state following a discrimination complaint lodged by a woman who had a distressing encounter with a security guard. Ansley Baker, who was attending a Kentucky Derby party at the Liberty Hotel in May, was confronted by the guard while in the bathroom, leading to a humiliating incident that resulted in her being accused of being a man.
During the event, a security guard reportedly banged on the stall door, demanding to see Baker’s ID. In her review on Google, Baker’s partner, Liz Victor, shared the emotional fallout of the encounter, stating that Baker was forced to prove her gender while still inside the stall, a situation that left both women feeling shaken and publicly humiliated when they were ejected from the event.
The Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) took notice of the incident after Victor’s review went viral, prompting a formal complaint against the hotel. Initially, the hotel claimed that the couple had been sharing a stall and had physically interacted with the security staff. However, a subsequent statement revealed that the security guard was suspended, acknowledging that there were “missteps” in how the situation was handled.
The couple firmly denied the hotel’s allegations, and their attorney, Lenny Kesten, criticized the hotel for its misleading statements. MCAD confirmed that both women faced stereotypes and harassment during the incident, asserting that they were unjustly treated. MCAD Chairwoman Sunita George condemned the hotel’s actions, highlighting the emotional distress inflicted on the couple.
As part of the settlement with the MCAD, the Liberty Hotel has agreed to cease any discriminatory practices, revise its non-discrimination policies, implement anti-discrimination training for staff, and contribute $10,000 to an LGBTQIA2S+ non-profit organization. The hotel will also display a non-discrimination statement prominently in its lobby.
Mark Fischer, the hotel’s general manager, expressed regret for the situation, stating that the hotel is committed to learning from these events to ensure the comfort and respect of all guests. He acknowledged the MCAD’s role in improving the hotel’s practices moving forward.
Kesten remains determined to pursue a civil lawsuit against the hotel, seeking punitive damages, and plans to uncover details regarding the decision-making process that led to the incident. Despite the challenges facing the LGBTQIA2S+ community, including increased scrutiny and discrimination, the MCAD is dedicated to defending rights and ensuring accountability for businesses in Massachusetts.
The case underscores the importance of fostering inclusive and respectful environments, reinforcing the community’s commitment to preventing discrimination and supporting victims in their quest for justice.