[Story also available as a Twitter Thread]

Protestors gathered at the Harry Buffalo restaurant on E. 4th St in downtown Cleveland on the evening of June 27, 2020. The purpose of the action was to call out restaurant owner Bobby George for allegations of sexism, racism, and failure to adhere to the State of Ohio’s COVID—19 Guidelines for bars and restaurants. The group then marched to two other establishments owned by George: Barley House and Townhall.

Organized by With Peace We Protest

COVID—19 Concerns

Past Health Inspection Reports:

In May, Cleveland Scene reported that “the city of Cleveland issued a warning citation to TownHall for not keeping proper distance, not conducting temperature checks on employees, and not making employees wear masks.”

Leaked screenshots from a Townhall employees-only group chat:

These three images are leaked screenshots of a Townhall employees-only group chat. The first shows a staff member revealing that she and her family had just tested positive for COVID—19. The following two are Bobby George’s response to staff.

Past Sexism Allegations

Lauren R. Welch @Lrochellew

In case you needed anymore reasons other than the ones the good people of Cleveland have already given you to NEVER give another dollar to @TOWNHALLOHC and any Bobby George affiliated companies, Alexandra Joy (@alexjoy_ on IG) is bravely sharing more reasons on her stories today.

Lauren R. Welch @Lrochellew

Bobby George asking managers to survey women employees on weight gain and routinely speaking to women disrespectfully.

Lauren R. Welch @Lrochellew

Hiring and firing employees based on appearance and requiring management to report bad reviews on Yelp to protect their reputation.

Lauren R. Welch @Lrochellew

Bobby George asking management to take pictures of applicants “for review” and in Townhall tees to make sure they “fit the brand.” Repulsive.

Lauren R. Welch @Lrochellew

Docking hours/pay to make sure he doesn’t have to pay employees overtime and blacklisting employees who decided to leave from mistreatment or otherwise.

Lauren R. Welch @Lrochellew

There are tons of questionable, unethical, illegal, and sexist practices being upheld by Bobby George and within his companies. Not to mention the insensitivity of the copy that was posted earlier for this event. (The post has now been taking down.)

Brian “BZ” Douglas is an independent, reader-supported journalist covering movement politics, grassroots music, and host of the “BZ Listening” Podcast.

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VIDEO REPORT: Bobby George Protest at Harry…