HIV-Positive Man Wins Early Victory in Discrimination Case

The Washington Blade is reporting that a commission in Alexandria, Va., has ruled in favor of a gay man who alleges that the company that owns TGI Friday’s restaurant fired him because he is HIV positive.

The Alexandria Human Rights Commission announced its decision on June 30 after holding an open hearing on the matter May 31. Based on information presented at the hearing, the commission found that Carlson Restaurants, which owns TGI Friday’s, violated the Alexandria Human Rights Code when it fired James McCray.

With the support of the commission, McCray said he will file a federal lawsuit under the Americans with Disabilities Act, which protects people who are HIV positive.

McCray said he was fired July 26, 2006, the day after he disclosed his HIV-positive status, according to the article. The company said it fired McCray because of concerns with restaurant operations and his integrity.