Could their ill-treatment have anything to do with them having last names ending in “-ez” and “-za” rather than “-son” or “-field?” As much as the liberal states claim equality for all, racism is still very entrenched. And dislike of people suspected of “extreme Southern” roots is sadly much more accepted in the US than other forms of prejudice.
Hope they get a lawyer and soak Loser Angeles for the cost of 1000 new trucks.