Sherrance Henderson, an African American mother of two autistic children and the owner of Cornucopia Queen, Inc. (CQI) doing business as Golden Corral, is advancing in her legal battle against Golden Corral Franchise Systems.
She is bringing serious allegations of racial discrimination and financial ruin against the franchise, claiming her franchise in Poughkeepsie, New York, was unlawfully terminated just 52 days after opening, resulting in nearly $10 million in losses.
According to a sponsored content published by Black News, in 2017 Henderson invested her life savings, primarily from a medical malpractice settlement, to purchase and establish a Golden Corral franchise.
However, shortly after its opening, Golden Corral Franchise Systems revoked her license citing minor infractions such as cigarette butts in an ashtray, debris in the parking lot, workers not wearing sanitary hats, and minor temperature issues in buffet trays.
These infractions, Henderson contends, were trivial and should have been rectifiable.
According to Henderson, the termination of her franchise license without an opportunity to address these minor issues was not only unjust but rooted in racial, gender, and disability discrimination.
She asserts that other non-Black and male franchise owners were given ample time to correct similar infractions, a courtesy that was not extended to her.
As a result, Henderson faced severe financial consequences, including the foreclosure of her home, forcing her to rely on state and federal assistance for survival.
Henderson’s legal team, which includes the renowned Hamlin Firm of Newark, New Jersey, has discovered that the financial damage inflicted exceeds $9.8 million.
This amount represents the funds Henderson meticulously invested to secure her family’s future through the Golden Corral franchise.
The case, titled 19 CV 2878 (NSR), is being heard in the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York (S.D.N.Y.). As of March 21, 2023, the court has recognized the significant financial and emotional damages suffered by Henderson, allowing her to pursue punitive damages against Golden Corral Franchise Systems.
Henderson’s struggle began in 2013 when she signed a 15-year franchise contract with Golden Corral. She was initially forced to bring in male partners and later faced additional obstacles when Golden Corral refused to honor her Newark, NJ, license agreement, ultimately compelling her to accept the Poughkeepsie location. The abrupt termination of her franchise led to a drastic financial and personal downfall.
Henderson’s formidable legal team, led by Ray Hamlin, is determined to seek justice for the loss of her life savings and the unjust closure of her business.
The Hamlin Firm has a notable track record, including representing media mogul Wendy Williams in her federal lawsuit against HOT 97 radio station and protecting Malcolm X’s family legacy.
Founded in 2015 by Sherrance Henderson, Cornucopia Queen Inc. embodies Henderson’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to providing for her family.
An alumna of Howard University and Johns Hopkins University Carey Business School, Henderson has authored over seven books and continues to persevere despite her physical disability and the challenges of raising two children with autism.
She is currently raising funds online via a GoFundMe page to support her legal battle and future endeavors.
For press inquiries or media interviews, contact the Angel Bermudez Law Firm at 786-479-5483.
