A 71-year-old Black woman, Euxucina “Zeana” Girton, has filed a federal lawsuit against Walmart, alleging wrongful termination and discrimination based on race and gender. The lawsuit stems from her firing after being accused of shoplifting items she had actually purchased. This case highlights ongoing issues of racial and gender discrimination in the workplace, particularly affecting older Black women.
Background of the case
Girton began her employment at the Oak Harbor, Washington, Walmart in October 2020, initially working as a full-time customer service employee earning $15 an hour. By March 2022, she was appointed as an “acting team lead,” taking on additional responsibilities without a corresponding pay increase. Despite her experience and qualifications, Girton was repeatedly overlooked for permanent team lead positions, which were instead filled by younger white males.
Claims of discrimination
According to the lawsuit, Girton was subjected to discriminatory practices throughout her employment. She claims that when she inquired about her lack of promotion, a female manager, Ashika Singh, stated it was “safer having a ‘man’ up front.” This comment underscores the gender bias that Girton faced in her workplace.
Additionally, Girton alleges that she endured harassment from a white colleague, Bambi Barr, who made racially charged comments. When Girton reported these incidents to her supervisor, Singh dismissed her concerns, claiming Barr could not be racist because she dated Black men.
Unjust termination
In January 2023, Girton was promoted to a temporary team lead position but was still denied a pay increase. Following her complaints about discrimination and lack of promotion, Girton was accused of shoplifting in February 2023. Walmart’s security manager confronted her with surveillance footage showing her placing items in a bag, asserting that she had stolen them because her Walmart app was not used for any purchases that day.
Girton maintained her innocence, explaining that she had likely used a different payment method. However, rather than investigating her claims, Walmart terminated her employment on the spot and had her escorted from the store by police. This incident was publicly shared by Barr on social media, further damaging Girton’s reputation.
Legal proceedings and Walmart’s response
Following her termination, Girton faced criminal charges for shoplifting, which were later dismissed when she provided proof of her purchases. Her lawsuit accuses Walmart of violating state and federal civil rights laws based on race, age and gender. Girton is seeking general, special and punitive damages, with the case set to be heard in a jury trial.
Walmart has publicly stated that they do not tolerate discrimination and are reviewing the lawsuit. They have 21 days from the filing date to respond to the complaint.
Implications of the case
This case not only highlights the personal struggles of Girton but also brings to light broader issues of discrimination faced by older Black women in the workforce. It raises important questions about workplace equality and the treatment of employees based on race and gender.
As the legal proceedings unfold, many will be watching closely to see how Walmart responds to these serious allegations and what implications this case may have for workplace policies across the country.
The lawsuit filed by Girton against Walmart serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized groups in the workplace. It emphasizes the need for companies to foster inclusive environments and address discrimination proactively. As this case progresses, it could pave the way for greater accountability and reform in corporate practices.
