The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has taken legal action against two transportation companies for alleged sexual orientation discrimination and retaliation against two gay mechanics.
Two Employees Subjected to Severe Harassment Due to Sexual Orientation
The lawsuit alleges that workers and supervisors at transportation companies’ facility in Ohio, subjected two mechanics to severe harassment due to their sexual orientation. This harassment involved the frequent use of derogatory slurs, physical violence, defacement of uniforms, and other hostile behavior. Despite being aware of the situation, the companies’ management allegedly failed to take effective action to stop the harassment and prevent its recurrence.
The EEOC claims that after the mechanics reported the harassment, the shop manager threatened job loss for anyone approaching human resources. Instead of addressing the issue, the mechanics experienced intensified harassment, and retaliation, including property destruction, unfavorable job assignments, false accusations, and ultimately, termination or forced resignation.
The Penalties
This conduct violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and retaliation for opposing such discrimination. Following unsuccessful conciliation attempts, the EEOC filed the lawsuit in the U.S. District Court of Ohio. The EEOC seeks permanent injunctive relief, lost wages, compensatory and punitive damages, and other appropriate relief.
Debra Lawrence, Regional Attorney at the Philadelphia District Office, emphasized the right of employees to work in a harassment-free environment regardless of their sexual orientation. She highlighted the EEOC’s commitment to enforcing these rights vigorously, even if it requires litigation.
Conclusion
This lawsuit serves as a reminder for businesses to prioritize creating inclusive workplaces, free from discrimination or retaliation based on sexual orientation, and to take prompt and effective actions when such issues arise. It underscores the importance of compliance with anti-discrimination laws to ensure fair treatment and a respectful work environment for all employees.