What is Jack and Jill of America Lawsuit?
Jack and Jill of America (JJA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing future African American leaders. In 2016, Angelique Best, a former member of the Greater Suburban Maryland Provisional Chapter of JJA, filed a lawsuit against the organization alleging racial discrimination. Best claimed that she was subjected to racial slurs and discrimination by other members of the chapter, and that the chapter’s leadership failed to take action to address her complaints.
The lawsuit was filed in the Circuit Court for Prince George’s County, Maryland. In 2018, the court granted summary judgment in favor of JJA, dismissing Best’s claims. Best appealed the decision to the Maryland Court of Special Appeals, which affirmed the lower court’s ruling in 2020.
FAQs
Q: What is Jack and Jill of America?
A: Jack and Jill of America is a non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing future African American leaders. It was founded in 1938 and has over 260 chapters nationwide.
Q: What were the allegations in the lawsuit filed against Jack and Jill of America?
A: Angelique Best, a former member of the Greater Suburban Maryland Provisional Chapter of JJA, filed a lawsuit against the organization alleging racial discrimination. Best claimed that she was subjected to racial slurs and discrimination by other members of the chapter, and that the chapter’s leadership failed to take action to address her complaints.
Q: What was the outcome of the lawsuit?
A: The Circuit Court for Prince George’s County, Maryland granted summary judgment in favor of JJA, dismissing Best’s claims. Best appealed the decision to the Maryland Court of Special Appeals, which affirmed the lower court’s ruling.
Q: Is Jack and Jill of America still in operation?
A: Yes, Jack and Jill of America is still in operation. It is a thriving organization with a strong commitment to its mission of nurturing future African American leaders.
Q: What can I do if I believe I have been discriminated against by Jack and Jill of America?
A: If you believe you have been discriminated against by Jack and Jill of America, you should contact the organization’s national headquarters or your local chapter. You may also want to consider filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
Q: How can I learn more about Jack and Jill of America?
A: You can learn more about Jack and Jill of America by visiting their website at jackandjillinc.org: https://www.jackandjillinc.org/.
Conclusion
The lawsuit filed against Jack and Jill of America is a reminder of the importance of fighting against discrimination in all its forms. While the lawsuit was ultimately dismissed, it is important to continue to speak out against injustice and to support organizations that are committed to diversity and inclusion.
References
- Angelique Best v. Greater Suburban Maryland Provisional Chapter, Unincorporated, et al.: https://www.mdcourts.gov/sites/default/files/unreported-opinions/1151s18.pdf
- Jack and Jill of America: https://www.jackandjillinc.org/