Every workplace is unique and there are many different dynamics amongst co-workers. For the most part, despite those many differences in personalities and backgrounds, people are able to get along, at least while they are at work. However, unfortunately this is not always the case. Sometimes people are mistreated because they are different or because they have a disability. Some companies do everything they can to prevent this kind of behavior, but other companies either turn their head the other way and ignore it, or even worse, promote it.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has filed a lawsuit against Wal-Mart and accused the giant retailer of several offenses involving harassment and discrimination. According to the lawsuit, the company is guilty of breaking a federal law because it did not provide reasonable accommodations to an employee who worked at its Hodgkins, Il store. The lawsuit also claims that the store did not prevent harassment by coworkers of the same employee, who was disabled by bone cancer. According to court documents, the store had originally agreed to provide the disabled woman with a chair in her work area.
Wal-Mart also complied with her request to schedule her for fewer hours while she was recovering from bone cancer treatment, which made it difficult for her to walk or stand for long periods of time. However, after several months of compliance, the store revoked her adjusted schedule with no explanation and it did not ensure that a chair was always in her workstation. The store allegedly told her that if she wanted a chair she would have to carry one from the furniture department every day herself. The woman also claims that another employee harassed her, called her names in relation to her disability and made fun of her condition.
Should this case got to court Wal-Mart could be ordered to pay the former employee damages for the harassment and discrimination charges. The company could also choose to settle the case before it goes to trial. Either way, the EEOC has made it clear that they plan to pursue damages to the fullest against the giant retailer. If Wal-Mart is guilty of these charges it is another sad example of how people who are different are often mistreated simply because of those differences. However, nn one deserves to be treated in this way, which is why if you have been the victim of any kind of similar harassment or discrimination then you need to call us today at 312-558-1454, or click here to contact us online. We will stand up for your rights.
