Choose to Discriminate? You May Just Go Bankrupt!

During the summer, the Valley Club in suburban Philadelphia garnered national attention for allegedly discriminating against 46 Black and 10 Hispanic campers who were invited to swim there. The families of the campers claim that the Valley Club revoked the children's pool privileges because of their race and as a result of complaints from some members of the club. What really makes this sad is that some of the children reported overhearing club members make insensitive remarks. Since then, the club has been sued for racial discrimination, and last week, the club's board of directors voted to file for chapter 7 bankruptcy protection.

Suddenly, members of the club are expressing dismay about how their club has been portrayed. What they should be expressing dismay about is how some of their members behaved. Or maybe they should be expressing dismay about the lack of diversity in its membership ranks. Numerous news sources have stated that the club had no African American members among its ranks for atleast the last 2 years. The Valley Club could have used this instance as a teaching moment. They could have made an effort to improve the diversity in its ranks. Or even better, they could have instituted a zero tolerance policy toward racist comments. They may not have the chance to at this point.

The lesson here for everyone is that when you perpetuate discriminatory policies, you have a strong chance of being sued. And as we are well aware, getting sued can cost big bucks as well as cost many entities their reputation. If you don't believe me, take a look at the many large U.S. corporations that have had to shell out millions of dollars to settle discrimination lawsuits and repair their public image over the last decade. A multimillion hit to an entity's profit line is certainly one way to get it's attention.

I'm glad the families of the campers did not let allow the Valley Club to slide as a result of what happened. Each of us must challenge institutions that choose to allow discrimination in any form. Are you willing to do your part? It seems like a very small step, but this small step can go a long way toward avoiding millions of dollars in legal fees.   
For more on the Valley Club bankruptcy and lawsuit, click here.