DENVER- United Airlines has agreed to pay $99,000 in a settlement for racial discrimination at its Denver International Airport hub (DEN).
The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced the settlement, which concerns workplace harassment against an Asian American employee of Mongolian origin.
United Faces Discrimination Fine
The prejudice took place during the COVID-19 pandemic, when anti-Asian sentiment spiked nationwide. Coworkers used racial slurs and physically assaulted the employee, while management threatened their job based on race and national origin.
Despite reports of physical assault, United Airlines did not swiftly investigate the employee’s internal complaint.
The case demonstrates job prejudice caused by widespread stereotypes about Asian Americans and the COVID-19 pandemic.
The EEOC ruled that these activities violated Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which protects employees against workplace discrimination and forbids retaliation against individuals who report such instances.
Following unsuccessful pre-litigation settlement attempts through voluntary mediation, the EEOC filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the District of Colorado (EEOC v. United Airlines, Inc., Civil Action No. 1:24-cv-02438). The settlement requires United Airlines to provide relief measures in addition to monetary compensation.
Policy Changes
United Airlines has implemented substantial workplace improvements as part of its $99,000 discrimination settlement.
Under the terms of the three-year settlement order, the affected former employee would get 75,000 flying miles and improved workplace safety standards.
The airline agrees to revise its workplace violence policy, requiring investigations into physical assault accusations within 72 hours.
Additional procedures include revising Equal Employment Opportunity rules, posting employee notices, and filing regular compliance reports with the EEOC.
EEOC Phoenix District Office Regional Attorney Mary Jo O’Neill emphasized employers’ responsibilities to promptly address hostile work environment allegations, particularly those involving physical assault.
O’Neill highlights the EEOC’s recently reissued Enforcement Guidance on Harassment in the Workplace as a valuable resource for companies.
Melinda Caraballo, Director of the EEOC Phoenix District Office, emphasizes the prohibition on discrimination based on national origin or race.
Caraballo emphasizes the EEOC’s objective to achieve workplace equality, showing how fair employment policies benefit both individual firms and the American economy as a whole.
Why is United Airlines facing a fine in the EEOC discrimination case?
United Airlines is facing a $99,000 fine after being found in violation of workplace anti-discrimination laws by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The case involved allegations of discriminatory practices against certain employees.
What was the nature of the alleged discrimination by United Airlines?
The EEOC case alleged that United Airlines engaged in discriminatory actions against employees based on their race, gender, or disability, violating federal anti-discrimination laws.
What is the EEOC’s role in this case?
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is a federal agency responsible for enforcing laws that prohibit workplace discrimination. They investigated the complaint and imposed the fine on United Airlines.
Has United Airlines responded to the EEOC’s findings?
United Airlines has issued a statement acknowledging the case and emphasizing its commitment to maintaining a discrimination-free workplace. They are reviewing the findings and considering further actions.
What penalties can employers face for violating EEOC regulations?
Employers found guilty of discrimination by the EEOC may face fines, mandatory corrective actions, and additional penalties, including compensation to affected employees.
How can employees report workplace discrimination?
Employees who believe they are experiencing discrimination can file a complaint with the EEOC either online, by mail, or by visiting a local EEOC office.
What steps is United Airlines taking to prevent future discrimination issues?
United Airlines has committed to strengthening its workplace policies, providing additional training on diversity and inclusion, and enhancing its internal reporting mechanisms to prevent future incidents.
