There are many cases that will prompt an employee to allege discrimination. Houston companies typically have policies in place that prevent wrongdoing in the form of harassment or wrongful termination. Despite a business’ best efforts, there are times in which a worker can bring a lawsuit based on something a manager said or the way he or he was let go from the company. In those instances, it is important for the organization to present information supporting its actions.
According to Wal-Mart, a man from Keller was hired when he was 49 years old and then promoted to store manager when he was 53. A company spokesman notes that Wal-Mart gave the man a leave of absence when he let his employer know that he had been diagnosed with diabetes.
The worker, however, has a different take on what occurred. He claims that Wal-Mart discriminated against him based on his age and disability. According to a lawsuit that the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed on his behalf, the man complained to the human resources department about his supervisor calling him an “old man” and making other harassing comments, and the company failed to take action.
The suit notes that he asked to be re-assigned after his diabetes diagnosis but Wal-Mart rejected the request. However, the company spokesman said the only request the individual made regarding his health was for the leave of absence.
Any company that is facing employment litigation is best served by hiring an attorney. A lawyer can put together evidence supporting that the business acted within its rights, which will serve as protection against a lawsuit.
Source: CBS DFW, “North Texas Man, EEOC Sue Wal-Mart for Discrimination,” March 14, 2014