UPS Workers File Proposed Class-Action Lawsuit Over Systemic Job Bias Against Women

Three women filed a lawsuit accusing their employer, United Parcel Service Inc. (UPS), of systematically discriminating against them and other employees based on age, gender and disability. The company allegedly violated California and federal labor laws. 

The proposed class-action lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California in San Francisco. The plaintiffs are three women who work in the sorting area at the Oakland hub of UPS. The complaint named their supervisor, Ricardo Moreno, as a defendant.

Moreno allegedly harassed and retaliated against female employees. He was accused of “singling out” women he believed to be “too feminine” to take on extra tasks.

The workplace culture at UPS was described as an “old boy’s club” in which female workers were denied the opportunities they had earned through seniority, paid less for equal work and blocked from promotions. According to the complaint, the company failed to take appropriate steps to address the situation despite being aware of the harassment and discriminatory treatment.

The lawsuit claimed female UPS employees were forced to work in the back while male workers were given more visible frontline positions with opportunities for advancement, higher wages and other benefits. These assignments were made in violation of the company’s seniority rules. Female employees who complained allegedly suffered retaliation. 

The lawsuit seeks at least $250 million in damages for back pay, front pay, lost benefits and more. Female UPS employees across the country who have experienced systemic bias based on age, gender or disability at work any time after November 9, 2017, are eligible class members.

The plaintiffs are calling for UPS to end their unlawful employment practices. The lawsuit is asking the employer to implement programs to remedy gender, age and disability bias against female workers and to ensure they receive fair compensation.

While Erlich Law Firm is not involved with this lawsuit, we have represented workers in many different types of class-action cases. If you are experiencing unlawful treatment in the workplace, contact us today to speak with an Oakland employment lawyer.