According to a federal lawsuit brought by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, a Panda Express general manager at a San Jose, Calif. location mistreated Latino workers, assigning them fewer work hours and more difficult and dirty tasks than he did Asian employees.

The Mercury News reports the EEOC’s Bay Area office, alleging a violation of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, said in a statement that “Hispanic workers who worked as counter help were required to clean the bathroom, tables and counters, while Asian employees were permitted to simply stand around and watch.”

A Latino worker at the restaurant said he was made to feel like “a worthless employee” by the alleged mistreatment. Panda Express declined comment because the legislation is pending.

The EEOC is seeking monetary damages for the affected employees and wants the restaurant to start anti-discrimination training.

Feds: San Jose Panda Express made Hispanic employees clean toilets while Asian workers watched [Mercury News]

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