Marrero
NEW ORLEANS - A Cuban national has filed a federal lawsuit against a Jefferson Parish food bank for more than $100,000 claiming he was refused service because of his race.
Angel Herrera filed suit against Gretna Food Distribution Center Inc. on July 9 in federal court in New Orleans.
Herrera is a Cuban citizen and has a legal "green card."
The incident occurred on July 26 and 29, 2011, when the president of the board of directors allegedly told Herrera that the defendant did offer food stuffs but stated, "We serve United States citizens only."
In addition, the food bank allegedly had a sign indicating that it served only U.S. citizens, the suit claims.
The defendant is accused of discrimination against Herrera because of his alienage and national origin.
The plaintiff is asking for an award of more than $100,000 in compensatory and punitive damages, plus court costs, and attorney's fees. A jury trial is requested.
Herrera is represented by New Orleans attorney Robert L. Marrero.
Case No. 2:12-cv-01785