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COOK COUNTY RECORD

Monday, November 4, 2024

Former Employee Alleges Discrimination Against Global Logistics Company

Federal Court
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A former employee has filed a lawsuit against a global logistics company, alleging discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in the workplace. Iryna Slizhova lodged her complaint in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois on October 16, 2024, accusing DSV Air & Sea, Inc. of various violations under federal and state laws.

Slizhova's allegations against DSV Air & Sea, Inc. are serious and multifaceted. She claims that during her tenure as an Air Export Coordinator from July 2011 until her termination in October 2023, she was subjected to discriminatory practices based on her sex, national origin (Belarusian), and familial status (divorced). The complaint outlines a hostile work environment perpetuated by supervisors and colleagues who allegedly mocked her accent and made derogatory comments about her personal life. One supervisor named Alaina is accused of defaming Slizhova by spreading false rumors about her marital fidelity after learning of Slizhova's impending second marriage.

The complaint further details instances of sexual harassment by another manager, Roop Mane, who allegedly made inappropriate comments about Slizhova's appearance and propositioned her for massages. Despite declining these advances and attempting to avoid Mane, Slizhova refrained from reporting him due to fear of retaliation given his position of power within the company.

Slizhova contends that these actions led to her wrongful termination under the guise of downsizing on October 19, 2023. She argues that this was a pretext for discrimination and retaliation after she opposed unlawful conduct in the workplace. The lawsuit also reveals that following her dismissal, a less qualified male candidate was hired for a position she had applied for but was told did not exist.

In seeking justice through the court system, Slizhova requests back pay with interest, front pay, compensatory and punitive damages, as well as attorney fees among other reliefs deemed appropriate by the court. Her case highlights significant issues within workplace environments concerning discrimination based on sex and national origin under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Section 1981.

Representing Slizhova is Mohammed O. Badwan from Sulaiman Law Group Ltd., while no specific attorneys are listed for DSV Air & Sea Inc. The case has been assigned Case ID: 1:24-cv-10434 but does not mention any presiding judge at this stage.

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