In a startling revelation, Chandra Carney has filed a lawsuit against The New York Times, alleging she was terminated after raising concerns about the company’s compliance with disability access standards and requesting time off for brain surgery.
Allegations of Discrimination and Retaliation
According to Carney’s lawsuit filed in Manhattan state court, she accused The New York Times Co. of violating New York State Human Rights Law and a New York City civil rights statute. The suit claims disability discrimination and retaliation on the part of the company.
NY Times Fired Worker Who Needed Brain Surgery : Threats and Termination
Carney detailed in her complaint that her boss threatened her with a poor performance review when she resisted efforts to limit accessibility initiatives. Despite receiving positive feedback on her work, she was abruptly fired just a week after requesting time off for surgery.
NY Times Fired Worker Who Needed Brain Surgery : Legal Battle Unfolds
The lawsuit referenced a 2020 New York Times article criticizing the company’s progress in accommodating disabilities, emphasizing the long road ahead. Carney found herself in a dire situation, facing major brain surgery without income and on the verge of losing health insurance.
Workplace Hostility
Carney, who worked as a senior program manager for disability accessibility, asserted that her boss became increasingly hostile, publicly berating her and monitoring her actions regarding accessibility compliance concerns.
NY Times Fired Worker Who Needed Brain Surgery : Unjustified Termination
Despite the company’s claims that Carney’s termination was due to documented performance issues, her attorney, Seth Rafkin, emphasized the distressing circumstances surrounding her dismissal.
Seeking Justice
Rafkin expressed hope for vindication for Carney, highlighting the challenges she faced following her unjust termination. The case underscores broader issues of workplace discrimination and the need for accountability.
