Juan Tavorus Williams has filed a comprehensive lawsuit alleging systemic racial discrimination and civil rights violations against multiple entities, including a city government and several private corporations. The complaint was filed on November 17, 2025, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against the City of Chicago, Foot Locker Inc., Merchandise Mart Properties Inc., Albertsons Companies Inc., and other associated parties.
The plaintiff, Juan Tavorus Williams, asserts that he has been subjected to a continuous pattern of racial profiling, harassment, false imprisonment, and intimidation by both public and private sector defendants. He alleges that these actions have deprived him of his civil rights under federal law, specifically citing violations of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and 1968. Williams describes incidents involving aggressive security personnel at various locations in Chicago who allegedly used excessive force and discriminatory practices against him. For instance, on March 31, 2025, he claims he was assaulted by a security guard at Champs Sports after refusing an unlawful search. This incident is cited as part of a broader pattern of racially motivated violence.
Williams further accuses Jewel-Osco employees of stalking and harassing him while he worked as an Uber driver. He claims these actions were intended to interfere with his ability to earn a living. In another serious allegation dated October 31, 2025, Williams recounts being violently attacked by security guards at Merchandise Mart Properties without provocation while performing delivery duties for Uber. This assault resulted in significant physical injuries requiring medical attention.
The lawsuit seeks substantial damages totaling over $1 billion from the City of Chicago alone for emotional distress and historical injustices tied to systemic racism. Additionally, Williams demands $100 million from Foot Locker Inc., citing physical injuries and emotional trauma caused by their employee’s actions. He also seeks $1 million from Albertsons Companies Inc., arguing that their discriminatory practices have harmed his livelihood.
Representing himself pro se in this case, Juan Tavorus Williams is requesting compensatory damages for medical expenses and lost wages alongside punitive damages due to what he describes as outrageous conduct by the defendants. He is also seeking injunctive relief to prevent further harassment or discrimination.
The case is presided over by Judge John J. Tharp Jr., with Magistrate Judge M. David Weisman assisting. The case ID is 1:25-cv-14071.
Source: 125cv14071_Juan_Tavorus_v_Merchandise_Mart_Complaint_Northern_District_of_Illinois.pdf
