Workers file racial harassment suit against BFS

Tire Business staff report

Des Moines, Iowa -- Eight African-American employees of Bridgestone/Firestone's Des Moines farm tyre plant are seeking certification of a class action, claiming they and other minority employees were subjected to racial harassment and discrimination at the plant.

The employees claim that co-workers used racial insults and threats against them, including nooses hung from the rafters and swastikas posted on walls. They also claim management intimidated and retaliated against minority workers who brought complaints of discrimination.

The plaintiffs seek relief, including permanent injunctions against discriminatory behaviour and disciplinary action against those committing discriminatory acts. The suit was filed in the Iowa District Court for Polk County.

BFS issued a statement saying the charges were without merit, and the company trains all employees on its zero-tolerance policy against discrimination.

From Tire Business (A Crain publication)