Eight Black employees at a General Mills plant in Covington, Georgia, have filed a federal lawsuit against the company, claiming systemic racial discrimination and harassment by White managers. The lawsuit, filed on June 2, 2024, alleges that the plant’s management has fostered a hostile work environment for Black employees for decades.
Allegations of Racial Discrimination
The lawsuit accuses White managers at the Covington plant of consistently favoring White employees for promotions while subjecting Black workers to harsher disciplinary actions. One manager allegedly referred to Black employees using the derogatory term “colored.”
The plaintiffs claim that two White managers established an informal organization called the “Good Ole Boys,” which has perpetuated a culture of racism within the plant since the 1980s. This group reportedly used symbols and history associated with white supremacist groups like the Ku Klux Klan to intimidate Black employees and maintain discriminatory practices.
Offensive Imagery and Incidents
One particularly troubling example cited in the lawsuit is a mural displayed at the factory from 2005 to 2021. This mural depicted Confederate leaders using General Mills mascots, such as the Cocoa Puffs cuckoo bird representing Jefferson Davis and the Honey Nut Cheerios bee portraying General Stonewall Jackson.
Additionally, the lawsuit describes an incident where a Black employee found “KKK” etched into his lunchbox. Rather than addressing the racist act, the managers forced the employee to provide a handwriting sample to prove he wasn’t responsible.
Long-Standing Issues Ignored
The lawsuit alleges that local and corporate HR departments have ignored these “egregious incidents of racism” for over two decades. It claims that HR would inform White supervisors about complaints made by Black employees, often revealing the complainants’ identities, leading to retaliation against those employees.
General Mills’ Response
In response to the lawsuit, General Mills issued a statement to CNN, stating that the company does not comment on pending litigation. The company emphasized its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, asserting that it does not tolerate any form of discrimination. On its website, General Mills highlights its policies prohibiting discrimination and promoting diversity and inclusion programs.
Seeking Justice
The plaintiffs are seeking a trial by jury and are requesting compensatory and punitive damages for hundreds of Black employees who have worked at the Covington plant. They hope to bring attention to the discriminatory practices and secure justice for those affected.
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