Goodyear loses $4.4 million discrimination case

Seattle, Washington State -- A former Goodyear store manager has won nearly $4.4 million (€3 million) in damages in a lawsuit charging she was the victim of discrimination because of her sexual orientation.

Melissa Sheffield said her bosses at Goodyear started discriminating against her after she brought her girlfriend to a managers´ dinner. In particular, she said, her complaint about a homophobic colleague who brought a gun to work and then insulted her after she confronted him about it led to her demotion and eventual dismissal.

A King County (Washington) jury ruled in Sheffield´s favour.

In a prepared statement, Goodyear said it disagreed with the jury verdict and will appeal. The company said it is committed to a workplace free of discrimination or retaliation.

From Rubber & Plastics News (A Crain publication)