A high-profile complaint of workplace discrimination has been validated by an independent board of inquiry.
A Nova Scotia Human Rights Board of Inquiry released its decision in the Garnetta Cromwell v. Leon’s Furniture Limited case Tuesday, April 8.
Board chair Kathryn Raymond’s 73-page decision confirms that Ms. Cromwell experienced racial discrimination while working as a sales associate at a Leon’s in Dartmouth. The board found that Ms. Cromwell, an African Nova Scotian, had a number of experiences of differential treatment.
Ms. Cromwell faced ongoing discipline for workplace infractions at Leon’s, which was termed “excessive” by the board. Management discouraged Ms. Cromwell from applying for management positions and she was subjected to teasing and other comments that were racially discriminatory. There were 10 incidents found to be racial harassment.
“I feel that justice has been done,” said Ms. Cromwell. “The treatment I experienced was dehumanizing and caused me great personal and professional loss. I feel validated and proud of the fact that I spoke up about what I felt was racial discrimination, a problem that remains far too common in workplaces and communities in Nova Scotia.”
The board ordered Leon’s to pay Ms. Cromwell $8,000 in general damages within 30 days. Ms. Cromwell has also been awarded 18-months of lost earnings, less income earned in the 18 months after she left Leon’s.
Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission director and CEO Tracey Williams said the board’s findings highlight an under-considered part of workplace culture that has broad implications across the province.
“The examination of how joking, sarcasm and workplace dynamics in this decision provides an opportunity for Nova Scotian employers to reflect upon the culture of their workplaces and ask themselves how it might affect their employees, customers and the community they serve,” said Ms. Williams.
The full text of the board of inquiry’s decision is available at http://humanrights.gov.ns.ca under Information Resources, Board of Inquiry decisions.
Source: Release
