Brian Gilbert has taken a bold step in seeking justice against his former employers, alleging a series of discriminatory and retaliatory actions that have marred his professional life. On January 22, 2025, Gilbert filed a complaint in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against 1808 Holste Motorsports, LLC, Ghaben Auto Group, LLC, Sedat Gurel, and Alan Amjed. The case highlights allegations of hostile work environment harassment based on ancestry, race, national origin, religion, age discrimination, and retaliation.
The complaint paints a vivid picture of the alleged misconduct faced by Brian Gilbert at the hands of his employers. Employed since December 2017 as an Automotive Finance Manager with Ultimo Motors—a brand under Ghaben Auto Group—Gilbert accuses the defendants of fostering a toxic workplace rife with discrimination. According to Gilbert's filing, he endured repeated harassment from General Manager Sedat Gurel and Sales Manager Alan Amjed. These managers allegedly made derogatory remarks about his Jewish heritage and age while subjecting him to demeaning tasks unbefitting his role.
Gilbert’s accusations extend beyond verbal abuse; he claims that he was denied rightful compensation for winning sales contests due to his ancestry and age. The lawsuit details how these denials were part of a broader pattern of disparate treatment that deprived him of economic opportunities. Moreover, Gilbert alleges that after notifying management about these issues through legal counsel in May 2024, he faced increased hostility and threats from Gurel—a clear act of retaliation according to the complaint.
In pursuit of justice, Brian Gilbert seeks damages for lost compensation and emotional distress caused by the defendants' actions. He also requests punitive damages to deter such behavior in the future and demands unpaid compensation along with statutory interest penalties under the Illinois Wage Payment and Collection Act (IWPCA). The lawsuit underscores the need for accountability within workplaces to ensure fair treatment irrespective of race or religion.
Representing Brian Gilbert are attorneys Max P. Barack from The Garfinkel Group LLC alongside Haskell S. Garfinkel and Alex Stamataglou. As this case unfolds before Judge [Name not provided], it serves as a critical reminder of ongoing challenges in achieving workplace equality across diverse communities. Case ID: 1:25-cv-00730.