lawsuit-alleges-discrimination-and-sexual-harassment-at-broad-museum

Former Broad Museum HR Director Alleges Discrimination and Sexual Harassment

The former human resources director of the Broad Museum in Los Angeles, Darron Rezell Walker, has filed a lawsuit against the museum and its former chief operating officer, Alysa Gerlach. Walker accuses Gerlach of discrimination, retaliation, and sexual harassment. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles County Superior Court, details a troubling series of events that ultimately led to Walker’s termination.

Allegations of Discrimination and Retaliation

According to the lawsuit, Gerlach pressured Walker to fire a white employee, Rick Mitchell, based on personal animus, age, and race. Gerlach allegedly made derogatory comments about Mitchell, referring to him as an “old white man” and a “misogynist.” Despite Walker’s determination that Mitchell should not be terminated, Gerlach proceeded to fire both Mitchell and Walker in retaliation.

Walker also claims that Gerlach created a hostile work environment by asking inappropriate questions about his sex life and sharing personal information about her own intimate relationships. The lawsuit further asserts that Gerlach attempted to prevent Mitchell from communicating with her superior, Broad founding director Joanne Heyler, without Gerlach’s presence.

Legal and Reputational Risks

As the HR director, Walker expressed concerns about the legal and reputational risks associated with terminating Mitchell. Despite conducting interviews with Mitchell’s co-workers and subordinates, which portrayed Mitchell as a respected manager, Gerlach proceeded with her plan to terminate him. This decision led to Walker facing hostility and ultimately being fired in a humiliating manner.

Failure to Prevent Retaliation and Wrongful Termination

The lawsuit accuses the Broad Museum of failing to take reasonable steps to prevent retaliation and wrongful termination against Walker. It also highlights the alleged hostile work environment created by Gerlach, who is accused of asking inappropriate questions and expressing curiosity about topics related to gay sexual activity, despite Walker being gay.

The Broad Museum and Gerlach have not responded to requests for comment on the lawsuit. Walker’s attorney, Michelle Iarusso, emphasizes the devastating impact of Walker’s quick dismissal on his reputation and career aspirations. The lawsuit sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals who speak out against discrimination and harassment in the workplace, underscoring the importance of taking a stand against such behaviors.