Amazon.com, the e-commerce giant that speaks out about its diversity and social justice needs, was accused of discriminating against African-American and female employees and was sued in U.S. federal court today.
Charlotte Newman, an African-American woman, works as a senior manager at Amazon Web Services. In her complaint, she says she was harassed and sexually assaulted in the workplace and did not receive the promotions she deserved.
“Like many other African-American and female employees at Amazon, Newman was subjected to insurmountable and systematic discrimination because of the color of her skin and her gender,” defense attorneys said.
In response to AFP’s request for comment, an Amazon spokesperson said, “Amazon strives to develop a diverse, fair and inclusive Culture, and these allegations do not reflect our efforts or values.”
“We will not tolerate any form of discrimination or harassment and will thoroughly investigate all allegations and take reasonable steps.”
A spokesperson said Amazon is investigating the allegations made in the lawsuit.
Newman said she was hired four years ago to work as a public policy manager at Amazon and soon realized she was working in a higher-level job but was paid less than her other white colleagues.
Last June, Newman filed written allegations of harassment by a male Amazon executive and “discriminatory attitudes” toward her by several managers, according to the complaint. She later complained to the Office of Human Rights in Washington, D.C. (Office of Human Rights).
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