Daimler settles discrimination complaints with 6 workers
by Steven Dubois, The Associated Press
Daimler settled discrimination complaints filed by six workers at Portland, Ore., plant by agreeing to pay US$2.4 million
PORTLAND, Ore.—Daimler Trucks North America LLC has settled discrimination complaints filed by six workers at its Portland, Ore., plant by agreeing to pay US$2.4 million.
The complaints against the subsidiary of German automotive giant Daimler AG included an allegation that an employee threatened a black worker with a noose and said he’d drag the man behind a truck.
Oregon Labor commissioner Brad Avakian announced the settlement on Jan. 29.
The complaints had been filed with his office.
Avakian said the US$2.4 million includes attorney fees for the six workers and a fund to deal with future complaints.
Daimler said in a statement it had co-operated with Avakian’s investigation and is committed to diversity.
Daimler Trucks North America employs more than 20,000 employees in North America.
The heavy truck and bus maker was facing nine complaints as of October 2014, some of which date back as early as 1994.
At least one complaint said an employee was forced to leave his position because of working conditions at the plant.
Daimler Trucks said it doesn’t tolerate discrimination or harassment on any basis and is committed to diversity and inclusion.
