Tesla has a long-standing problem with workplace sexual harassment, according to media reports. The revelation comes as the automaker prepares to release its much-anticipated Model 3 electric car in New York and across the United States.
It has been reported that women have faced workplace sexual discrimination in Tesla’s factories and corporate offices for years, but management has done nothing to address the problem. Apparently, several female Tesla employees shared their experiences of on-the-job sexual discrimination during a March 8 town hall meeting. The women alleged that male supervisors had subjected them to unwanted sexual comments, sexist attitudes and discriminatory hiring practices during their time at the automaker.
Earlier this year, a female employee filed a lawsuit against Tesla, claiming that she was wrongfully terminated after she took her complaints of workplace sexual discrimination and harassment to the press. The plaintiff alleges that she was sexually harassed while on the job and received a lower salary than her male colleagues. She further claims that she was denied the opportunity to move up within the company.
Federal law forbids employers with 15 or more workers from discriminating against employees on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin and religion. Employees who believe they are victims of workplace gender discrimination may have grounds to pursue a sexual discrimination claim with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Victims of sexual harassment could learn more about their legal rights by contacting an attorney who has experience with these types of matters and who can explain the procedures involved.
Source: Popular Mechanics, “Multiple Tesla Employees Allege Workplace Harassment, Discrimination“, Avery Thompson, July 6, 2017
