Credit: Original reporting by Jeroslyn JoVonn On November 6th, nine Black women gathered at the Cork and Bull Chophouse in Chesapeake, Virginia for what was meant to be a joyful Friendsgiving celebration. Instead, their evening turned into humiliation and pain. According to reporting by Jeroslyn JoVonn, a fight broke out between two women who were not part of their group. Yet, despite having no involvement, the nine friends were told to leave. When one of them asked why, a manager allegedly responded: “Because you all like to fight.” The women, who had simply come together for fellowship, were forced to stand up in front of other patrons and exit the restaurant, while the actual individuals involved in the altercation had already left. As one of the women, Shakoya Holt, explained, “We were all put in a negative spotlight in that moment. It was all eyes on us, very embarrassing.” Now, the group has hired attorney Joyvan Malbon-Griffin, who has stated that this treatment was discriminatory and violated their rights. “All nine of these women were treated more harshly than the two people who were actually engaged in the misdemeanor action,” Malbon-Griffin said. The women are seeking accountability and justice. The Bigger Picture This incident is not isolated. It reflects a broader pattern of how Black people, especially Black women, continue to be disrespected, stereotyped, and discriminated against in public spaces. To assume guilt based on race, and to punish those who were minding their own business, is not only unjust but deeply harmful. How do you justify removing nine women who were not involved, while excusing the actual participants in the fight? How do you justify humiliating them in front of an entire restaurant? This is not just bad judgment, it is systemic bias. And when establishments act this way, they are not only violating the dignity of their customers, but also potentially violating constitutional protections and the Commerce Clause, which ensures equal access and fair treatment in public accommodations. The Questions We Must Ask A Call for Accountability The women involved have said “enough is enough.” And they are right. We must demand accountability from businesses that perpetuate discrimination. We must call out injustice when we see it. And we must remind every establishment: Black women, and all marginalized communities, deserve respect, safety, and dignity. Until accountability is enforced, these incidents will continue. But by shining a light on them, by refusing to stay silent, and by demanding justice, we can push for change. Closing Thought This is about more than one restaurant. It is about a culture that too often stereotypes and mistreats Black people. It is about ensuring that our communities are not humiliated, dismissed, or denied their rights. Treat your customers with dignity and respect. Period.
