California Firefighter Responds to Sexual Orientation Discrimination with Legal Action

sexual orientation discriminationSexual orientation discrimination lawsuit. The demands on firefighters are difficult to imagine. They put their lives on the line in a myriad of situations on a regular basis, in the interest of serving the public. So, when they suffer discrimination and harassment back at the station or during training sessions, it is especially alarming. Legal support may be the best option in such instances.

Sexual Orientation Discrimination – Attacks

When Captain Dru Snider was harassed mercilessly at a fire camp in California, he says it impacted him so severely that he considered committing suicide. Instead, he decided to fight back, and filed a complaint with the department.

A report provided by Cal Fire determined that the environment was, indeed, disruptive, and that some workers were actually physically ill as a response to the leadership there. Reporting issues and requesting intervention resulted only in shunning the victim, who was reproached for  “flaunting” his homosexuality, and told “his kind” was not welcome at the camp. Ultimately, Snider filed a lawsuit against Cal Fire, alleging discrimination.

Sexual Orientation Discrimination and Sexism

In a separate case, firefighter LisaMarie Mason claims she has suffered through years of sexist remarks from her bosses and has been passed over for training opportunities that her male counterparts received simply because she is a woman. In addition to comments about women belonging in the home, and “jokes” calling her Homeplate, because everybody scores, Mason claims to have experienced physical assaults. Her grievances regarding department sexism resulted only in further harassment, so she ultimately decided a lawsuit was her only vehicle for justice.

Mason’s complaints are currently being investigated, and all parties are mum to the press. The complaint alleges a hostile environment in which sexism is rampant, along with discrimination, retaliation, and assault.

More Discrimination in San Francisco

Yet another claim of sexism involves a romantic relationship between Sam Romero, the Battalion Chief, and a female firefighter under his command. It seems the relationship was problematic for other firefighters, who claim Romero gave the woman preferential treatment and interfered with training and supervision by other senior employees. This, in turn, led to an abusive, hostile environment, putting the safety of employees at risk. As morale declined, the woman claims to have been the target of cruel attacks, such as individuals urinating in her bed.

Ultimately, eight firefighters were transferred to other stations, causing shame and an examination into their personal integrity. They responded by filing a legal suit alleging sexism, retribution, and a hostile work environment.

Obtaining Justice

If you are suffering from sexual harassment, discrimination or retaliation in the workplace, you should know that the law is on your side. At Beck Law P.C., our experienced team will fight aggressively to obtain justice on your behalf. If you live in Sonoma County, Mendocino County or Lake County California, contact us in Santa Rosa for a confidential consultation today.

Disclaimer

The information on this website should not be considered to be legal advice, nor construed to be the formation of any manner of attorney client relationship. Prior to taking any form of legal action, please consult with an attorney experienced in the appropriate area of law germane to your situation. Case results and testimonials presented on www.californialaborandemploymentlaw.net or any of its related websites are germane to the facts present for each individual case and is not a promise of similar outcomes for any other cases. This website is not intended to solicit clients for matters outside of the State of California.