State Insurance Official Files Discrimination Complaint Alleging Racism and Sexism
A high-ranking employee at Delaware’s Office of the Insurance Commissioner has filed a formal complaint alleging a toxic work environment, claiming she faced racial harassment, sexism, and retaliation from Commissioner Trinidad Navarro and other staff members.
Fleur McKendell, director within the state insurance office, described a pattern of microaggressions, inappropriate comments, and career obstruction. She alleged that the behavior created a hostile workplace, particularly for a woman of color in a predominantly white institution.
“These are the microaggressions that women of color often face in white-dominated workplaces,” McKendell said. “It's subtle but constant, and it adds up.”
McKendell, 38, stated she was:
-
Subjected to comments about her appearance, such as her fingernails and heels.
-
Denied permission to attend professional conferences without reasonable cause.
-
Targeted with baseless accusations and even subjected to handwriting analysis attempts to link her to anonymous complaints.
She said she was also the only African American manager in the office, and her race and gender played a key role in how she was treated.
Escalation of the Case
After refusing a state offer of one year of paid leave and $15,000 to drop her complaint and apply for another state job, McKendell’s case has escalated.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) office in Philadelphia has launched a formal investigation into her claims.
Navarro and his deputy deny the allegations. The deputy reportedly lost his job following the controversy but maintains his innocence.
Sources:
-
The News Journal / Delaware Online
-
U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
%20in%20Underground%20Mining.png)
