A new case of alleged workplace harassment has erupted, drawing significant outrage and attention on social media. This incident involves El Moro, one of Mexico City’s most famous churro chains, particularly at its Coapa branch.
On February 28, 2025, a worker known as Karen shared her distressing experience through social media, claiming she was harassed by her superiors to sign her resignation under duress, following accusations of "soiling the family image" of the business.
A video shared widely on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) shows Karen surrounded by certain personnel from the company, including the company lawyer and human resources (HR) representatives, who allegedly pressured her for over two hours. The footage captures her pleas for not being touched, highlighting the distress she was experiencing. "I refused to sign my resignation; it was unjustified," Karen stated emphatically. "I was subjected to harassment and pressure," she added, reflecting on her grim experience.
The situation escalated with Karen being physically restrained by one female employee, even as she exclaimed, "What is wrong with you? You can't touch me!", showcasing what many have labeled as workplace violence.
According to Karen, not only did they attempt to force her signature on the resignation document, but they also subjected her to verbal humiliation and mockery, witnessed by both coworkers and patrons present at the churro shop.
She expressed her feeling of vulnerability as she was ridiculed, stating how the employees involved acted with clear abuse of power. Karen's story has outraged many social media users and provoked discussions about employee treatment within the restaurant industry.
Following the viral spread of Karen’s video, the churro chain has faced mounting pressure to address the situation transparently. Users on platforms are echoing calls for accountability and pushing for action against the establishment. Witnessing the gravity of the situation, many have even called for boycotting the restaurant until appropriate measures and explanations are offered.
El Moro has since issued a statement claiming they are investigating the incident thoroughly and reiterate their commitment to providing a safe work environment respectful of all employees. They assured the public of their dedication to ensuring employee welfare, affirming their intentions to adhere to both legal obligations and the company's internal regulations.
“We stand by our employees to maintain healthy, safe, and inclusive workplaces, prioritizing respect and guaranteeing their well-being,” the company stated.
This case not only sheds light on the adverse conditions many workers often face but also raises significant questions about the support systems available to those encountering harassment at work. High-level employee harassment within dining establishments isn't just limited to this case; it narrates the broader, persistent patterns of inequity and mistreatment within the sector.
Discussing her troubling ordeal, Karen solicited support to amplify her testimony, urging anyone who could help to circulate her video to the appropriate authorities for legal recourse. Despite being advised by supporters to seek help from the Federal Labor Defense Procuratorate (Profedet), she seemed hesitant to take legal action against the chain herself as of the last reports.
The reaction to this incident has been swift and severe, with many online commentators demanding more rights and protections for service workers, who often have limited recourse against such exploitation. Many expressed their concern for the vulnerable positions employees can find themselves in, particularly when confronting disempowering power dynamics driven by management inequities.
Social media users have highlighted this case as quintessential of the treatment workers face and the urgent need for reformed labor practices throughout the industry. Karen, like many before her, is illustrating the contentious environment faced by employees who may be overlooked or summarily dismissed.
The outcry for justice continues to grow, as people urge fellow consumers to reflect on their choices when frequenting establishments contributing to workplace harassment. The incident at El Moro reflects unmet needs for immediate structural change to address power imbalances and inequities faced by countless workers across similar sectors.
While the investigation by El Moro progresses, it serves as another reminder of responsibility, accountability, and compassion necessary from not only corporate entities but society as well, to uproot workplace abuse wherever it may arise.
Only time will tell how El Moro's investigation will conclude and what reforms may eventually emerge to uphold employee rights within the industry, but the topic remains fervently alive thanks to Karen’s courage to stand against the injustices faced.