A former employee has accused a Chicago-based company of racial discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Charles Ivy filed a complaint against Besco Air, Inc. in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on August 6, 2024.
Ivy's lawsuit alleges that during his employment at Besco Air from January 2, 2024, to April 11, 2024, he was subjected to discriminatory practices based on his race. According to the complaint, Ivy was hired as a runner despite having the qualifications for a technician role. His supervisor, identified only as Matt (Caucasian), informed him that business was slow but promised a promotion in spring 2024. However, Ivy claims that he faced daily racial slurs from coworkers and supervisors alike, including Team Lead Dylan Delao (Hispanic). Ivy refrained from complaining due to fear of retaliation as he was the only African American employee at the company.
The complaint further details that Ivy was terminated on April 11, 2024, allegedly for not meeting performance standards—a claim he disputes given his lack of prior performance issues or disciplinary actions. He believes his termination was racially motivated and pretextual since his position was subsequently filled by a Caucasian employee named Jack.
Ivy’s legal action is grounded in violations of Section 1981 of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title VII of the same act. He argues that Besco Air engaged in systemic race discrimination and failed to provide equal terms and conditions of employment compared to non-African American employees. The plaintiff asserts that this conduct led to significant harm including loss of employment and emotional distress.
In seeking redress from the court, Ivy requests back pay with interest, compensatory and punitive damages, attorney fees and costs, pre-judgment interest if applicable, and any other relief deemed just by the court.
Representing Ivy is attorney Chad W. Eisenback from Sulaiman Law Group Ltd., while Judge Amrith Kaur Aakre oversees the case under Case ID: 1:24-cv-06871.