Pinterest is a popular app and website where people in Orange County and across the nation can share ideas for crafts, recipes, hair and fashion trends, or simply fun memes. However, the company has faced legal action and recently settled a gender discrimination and retaliation claim for $22.5 million.
The claim against Pinterest
The former chief operating officer of Pinterest claimed that the company “brazenly fired” her after she brought complaints regarding gender bias in the company. In her claim she stated that male executives were rewarded for being “strong leaders” while she was criticized for not being sufficiently compliant or collaborative.
Per the lawsuit, she was offered a less favorable compensation package than male peers and was ultimately let go in April 2020 after complaining about her treatment. She also claims that she was the recipient of “demeaning sexist comments” and that the company attempted to “create a fiction” that she left the company voluntarily.
Pinterest’s statement
In a September court filing, Pinterest denied these accusations. According to the company, it was committed to ensuring all workers felt supported and included. As part of the settlement, Pinterest will invest $2.5 million to be used towards helping “women and other underrepresented communities in the tech industry.”
Employers big and small can face accusations of discrimination
As this shows, large employers can face serious accusations that can cost the company millions. While employees have workplace rights, employers also have rights that deserve to be protected. Employers facing claims of discrimination will want to take the steps necessary to protect their interests and viability.
