United Parcel Service sued for racial bias
Nineteen United Parcel Service employees are suing the giant parcel distributor, saying they suffered repeated racial discrimination and the company did nothing to stop it, according to published reports.
Managers and supervisors enabled and even encouraged the hate at the distribution center in Maumee, Ohio, according to the lawsuit filed March 13.
The workers claim nooses were hung above the workstation of an African-American employee, that a monkey doll dressed as a UPS employee was placed near others and the N-word was frequently used.
The workers, many of whom have been at the company for more than two decades, argue the racist comments caused reactions ranging from “fear, anger and disgust to dismay” about the comments and lack of action from the company.
UPS has said it promptly investigated and took swift disciplinary action against those found to have engaged in inappropriate actions. UPS also said it has participated in remedial actions in cooperation with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission to ensure employees are trained and has also monitored its operations to ensure a positive and harassment-free environment.
Lawyers are asking a judge to award each worker at least $25,000 in damages, relief to address the company’s “pattern and practice of discrimination” as well as legal costs.
