A former employee has taken legal action against a company, alleging severe workplace discrimination and harassment. On January 24, 2025, Natalie (Sai) Lopez filed a complaint in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against Sweet Vegan LLC. The lawsuit accuses the company of sexual harassment, sex-based discrimination, and retaliation under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
The plaintiff, Natalie Lopez, was employed by Sweet Vegan LLC as an assistant baker from October 11 to November 25, 2024. During this period, Lopez claims to have been subjected to persistent misgendering by the company's owner, Sharyl Nelson. Despite repeated corrections from a coworker named Cheyenne regarding Lopez's preferred pronouns, Nelson allegedly continued this behavior. The complaint states that this misgendering caused Lopez significant distress and mental anguish. Furthermore, it is alleged that Nelson withheld wages amounting to at least $800 and created a hostile work environment by outing Lopez as transgender without consent during a meeting with coworkers.
Lopez asserts that these actions were part of a broader pattern of discrimination based on gender identity. The complaint highlights an incident where Nelson mocked Lopez's decision to pursue gender-affirming medical care in front of other employees. This conduct allegedly culminated in Lopez's constructive discharge due to unbearable working conditions. In addition to seeking back pay and compensation for lost benefits, Lopez is requesting compensatory and punitive damages for the emotional distress suffered.
Represented by attorneys Nathan C. Volheim and Mally L. Slone from Sulaiman Law Group Ltd., Lopez seeks relief through various forms including back pay with interest, front pay, loss of benefits compensation, punitive damages, attorney fees, and any other relief deemed appropriate by the court. The case has been assigned Case ID: 1:25-cv-00822.