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Discrimination allegations filed against WeWork’s ex-CEO and co-founder Adam Neumann and other top executives.
Medina Bardhi, former top aide to Neumann filed a pregnancy discrimination complaint with the EEOC and is asking for class-action status against WeWork.
Bardhi alleges in her complaint that she and other women at WeWork were paid less than men, discriminated against for being pregnant, and faced sexually offensive conduct at alcohol-fueled company events, according to Crain’s New York Business.
Bardhi described receiving derogatory complaints from not only Neumann but also WeWork Chief Legal Officer Jennifer Berrent after revealing to them that she was pregnant. Bardhi claims that Neumann reffered to her pregnancy leave as a “vacation” and Berrent referred to her pregnancy as a “problem,” and that Bardhi would be replaced and demoted from her role as chief of staff. Bardhi also stated that the man who was offered her role was offered more than double Bardhi’s salary.
Further, Bardhi’s complaint alleges that while she was ultimately reinstated in her position, when she become pregnant again in 2018, she was again replaced and with a man under-qualified for the position.
WeWork responded to say that they have a zero tolerance policy for discrimination.
According to Bardhi, the discrimination began as far back as her job interview where she was asked about her plans to get married and become pregnant. She alleges that it was a common question Neumann asked of his female job applicants. Other women at WeWork have filed lawsuits alleging sexual assault and gender pay gaps.
Pregnancy discrimination, sex discrimination, sexual harassment, gender pay gaps and other forms for inequality are issues at other major businesses, too. If you have faced similar discrimination or harassment, send us a message or fill out our free evaluation below.
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