Nichole Cage has filed suit against her former employer, Old Second National Bank, alleging racial discrimination. On November 22, 2024, Cage filed the complaint in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, accusing Old Second National Bank of race-based discrimination and harassment under the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
The lawsuit, filed by Cage with representation from attorney Chad W. Eisenback of Sulaiman Law Group Ltd., centers around allegations that Old Second National Bank engaged in alleged discriminatory practices that violated both Section 1981 and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. According to Cage's complaint, she was employed as an AVP Branch Manager at the bank from July 2012 until her termination on August 27, 2024. The complaint alleges that during her tenure, particularly from August 5 to August 27, 2024, Cage faced different terms and conditions of employment compared to her non-African American colleagues.
Cage's accusations are rooted in specific incidents that highlight what she describes as a pattern of systemic race discrimination at Old Second National Bank. For instance, during an investigation into alleged misconduct at her branch, Cage admitted to working out of another teller's drawer—a practice she claims was also committed by other white employees without any repercussions. Despite video evidence showing similar actions by these employees, only minority branch managers have been terminated over the past five years according to Cage’s claim.
Furthermore, Cage points out how investigations disproportionately targeted branches led by minorities.
In response to these grievances, Nichole Cage seeks several forms of relief from the court. She requests back pay with interest and compensatory as well as punitive damages for the emotional distress caused by her alleged unlawful termination and treatment. Additionally, she seeks reasonable attorneys’ fees and costs along with any other relief deemed just by the court.
Representing Nichole Cage is attorney Chad W. Eisenback from Sulaiman Law Group Ltd., under Case ID: 1:24-cv-12047.