Bradley Et Al V. Gannett Co. Inc.
Revised Summary: The class-action lawsuit, initiated on August 18, 2023, in the Eastern District of Virginia, encompasses five plaintiffs: Steven Bradley, Stephen Crane, Noah Hiles, Barbara Augsdorfer, and Logan Barry. These individuals, who are either current or former employees of Gannett Co., Inc., contend that the company instituted a "Reverse Race Discrimination Policy" with the objective of achieving racial and gender parity in its workforce by 2025. They assert that this policy unfairly disadvantaged non-minority employees. The plaintiffs maintain that the policy resulted in their being bypassed for promotions, receiving reduced compensation, and enduring other forms of discrimination, despite their qualifications and performance. Specific allegations include Mr. Bradley being overlooked for a promotion in favor of a less qualified candidate, Mr. Crane being directed to exclusively consider minority candidates for open positions, and a delay in Mr. Hiles' hiring due to his non-minority status. Mrs. Augsdorfer alleges her work assignment was reassigned to accommodate a Black employee, leading to her subsequent termination. Mr. Barry asserts he was overlooked for a leadership position in favor of a less experienced Black woman. The lawsuit is filed as a class action under Federal Rule of Civil Procedure 23, with the class defined as all individuals who were subjected to Gannett’s Reverse Race Discrimination Policy. The plaintiffs are seeking an injunction to halt this policy, declaratory relief asserting that the defendants have violated 42 U.S.C. § 1981, and various forms of relief including equitable remedies, compensatory damages, punitive damages, and a trial by jury. The court's jurisdiction is invoked under 28 U.S.C. § 1331, 28 U.S.C. § 1343 (3) and (4), and the venue is deemed appropriate within the Eastern District of Virginia, given that the defendant's headquarters are located in this district.
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