United Airlines is facing a lawsuit alleging racial discrimination at its catering facility at Denver International Airport (DIA). The lawsuit, filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), claims that United failed to address complaints of a hostile work environment where Black employees were subjected to racial slurs, derogatory comments, and other discriminatory behaviors by co-workers and supervisors. According to the EEOC, Black employees were allegedly called racial epithets, ridiculed, and subjected to offensive jokes and language regularly.
The lawsuit further alleges that these employees were unfairly targeted and faced harsher discipline compared to their non-Black counterparts. The EEOC contends that United Airlines not only failed to take appropriate action to prevent or correct the discriminatory behavior but also retaliated against employees who complained or sought to defend their rights. The commission argues that United’s inaction violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
The EEOC is seeking injunctive relief to end the alleged discrimination, as well as monetary damages for the affected employees, including back pay, compensatory damages, and punitive damages. It is also calling for United Airlines to implement policies and practices that would ensure a work environment free from racial discrimination.
United Airlines has responded to the lawsuit by stating that it does not tolerate discrimination of any kind and is committed to fostering an inclusive work environment. The airline has also expressed its willingness to cooperate with the EEOC to resolve these allegations. The lawsuit highlights ongoing concerns about racial discrimination in workplaces across the U.S. and reinforces the need for companies to proactively address such issues to ensure fairness and equality for all employees.