DOJ Sues Oakland Coffee Shop for Alleged Discrimination Against Jewish Customers

Oakland Coffee Shop Faces Federal Lawsuit Over Alleged Discrimination Against Jewish Customers Oakland, CA – The US Department of Justice (DOJ) filed a lawsuit against the Jerusalem Coffee House in Oakland, alleging discrimination against Jewish customers. The lawsuit stems from two separate incidents where customers wearing baseball caps displaying symbols associated with Judaism were allegedly denied service. The coffee shop's owner, Fathi Abdulrahim Harara, is of Palestinian descent. Assistant Attorney General Herme Dylan stated, "No American should feel afraid or unwilling to go into a particular restaurant that's open to the public and not be served because of their articles of faith." This statement highlights the DOJ's concern about religious discrimination and the importance of equal access to public services. However, Harara's attorney, Glen Katen, disputes the allegations. He contends that neither customer was actually denied service and that the lawsuit is a politically motivated attack, stating, "In our view, this is very much a political attack and antisemitism, which is a very real problem in this country and in the world." The case underscores the complexities of balancing religious freedom with claims of discrimination, particularly in the context of ongoing geopolitical tensions. The outcome of this lawsuit will have implications for businesses and individuals across the country.