Liberty Hotel Resolves Complaint Over Gender Misidentification Incident
The Liberty Hotel in Boston has come under scrutiny following a controversial incident involving gender misidentification. A couple, Ansley Baker and Liz Victor, faced humiliation when a security guard accused Baker of being a man in a restroom during a Kentucky Derby party. The incident prompted a complaint to the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD) and has led to significant legal actions.
Incident Overview
In May, while attending a Kentucky Derby event at the Liberty Hotel, Baker was confronted by security. The guard demanded to see her identification while she was in a bathroom stall. Despite verifying her gender, both women were ejected from the event, with Baker describing the incident as traumatic.
- Event Date: May
- Location: Liberty Hotel, Charles Street, Boston
- Compensation: $10,000 charitable donation agreed upon
Legal Actions and Responses
Following the incident, Baker and Victor’s lawyer, Lenny Kesten, announced plans to file a civil lawsuit against the hotel. The couple seeks punitive damages for what they describe as malicious treatment. MCAD has characterized the hotel’s conduct as discriminatory, stating the women were subjected to stereotypical harassment and retaliatory actions.
In a press release, Mark Fischer, the general manager of the Liberty Hotel, expressed regret regarding the hotel’s initial response to the incident. The hotel acknowledged errors in its handling of the situation and has committed to updated nondiscrimination policies and training for staff.
Effects on Non-Discrimination Policies
The MCAD reached a settlement with the Liberty Hotel that includes several corrective measures:
- Cease all discriminatory conduct
- Implement enhanced nondiscrimination policies
- Provide anti-discrimination training
- Post a non-discrimination statement in the hotel lobby
Furthermore, the hotel is to donate $10,000 to an LGBTQIA2S+ non-profit organization. The MCAD and Liberty Hotel are working collaboratively to prevent future incidents of discrimination.
National Context
Michael Memmolo, Executive Director of MCAD, highlighted the broader challenges relating to gender identity and sexual orientation. National policies under former President Trump targeted transgender rights, increasing the urgency to maintain protections against discrimination.
As this case unfolds, it emphasizes the critical need for businesses to foster inclusive environments where all individuals feel respected and safe.
