Key facts
- Amazon is accused of systematically discriminating against pregnant workers in a proposed class action lawsuit.
- The lawsuit alleges Amazon routinely denies pregnant workers basic accommodations such as chairs, bathroom and water breaks, and time off for prenatal appointments.
- The complaint claims Amazon threatens and fires pregnant employees who take too much time off.
- One plaintiff, Willamina Barclay, stated she was denied accommodations and subsequently fired after a pregnancy-related medical emergency.
- The lawsuit seeks damages, including lost pay, benefits, and punitive damages.
Amazon faces a proposed class action lawsuit alleging systematic discrimination against pregnant workers. Filed in federal court in Brooklyn, New York, the complaint claims the Seattle-based retailer routinely violates federal and New York worker protection laws by denying pregnant employees essential accommodations like chairs, bathroom and water breaks, and time off for prenatal appointments.
The lawsuit, brought by four former warehouse employees, challenges Amazon's alleged policies of threatening and firing pregnant workers who take excessive time off, and demanding medical documentation for accommodation requests.
One plaintiff, Willamina Barclay, detailed her experience of being denied accommodations, including a seated position and reduced lifting limits, despite a high-risk pregnancy. She reported experiencing severe abdominal pain while lifting heavy objects, leading to a hospitalization, and was subsequently terminated by Amazon for taking unpaid time off.
A Better Balance, a nonprofit organization supporting the lawsuit, hopes it will draw attention to pregnant workers' rights, especially as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) plans to propose revisions to the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act. The lawsuit seeks damages, including lost pay and benefits, as well as punitive damages, and calls for Amazon to reform its policies.