In a compelling legal battle, a former employee has filed a lawsuit against her previous employer, alleging discrimination and retaliation. Rebecca Zavala initiated the complaint on April 18, 2025, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against the Catholic Bishop of Chicago, operating as the Archdiocese of Chicago. This case brings to light serious allegations that challenge workplace equality and fair treatment.
Rebecca Zavala was employed as a Senior Financial Analyst by the Archdiocese of Chicago until her termination on August 21, 2024. Zavala claims her dismissal was rooted in discrimination based on her sex, national origin, and disability. She also alleges retaliation after she engaged in protected activities under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Illinois Human Rights Act (IHRA). Zavala argues that her termination was pretextual, designed to conceal unlawful discriminatory practices. During her tenure starting October 2023, Zavala excelled in her role but faced alleged harassment from Director James B. Hennessy due to her Mexican heritage and gender. Despite reporting these issues to HR personnel including Jacqueline Koustrup and Tim Dee, no investigations were conducted according to Zavala's claims.
The plaintiff contends that after filing a Charge of Discrimination with relevant authorities in July 2024, she experienced intensified harassment from Hennessy. Her work performance was unfairly criticized; false statements were made during reviews which affected her merit increase. Additionally, Zavala sought reasonable accommodations following an accident that resulted in physical and mental disabilities but faced excessive demands for information from the defendant instead of cooperation.
Zavala is seeking several forms of relief from the court: declaratory judgment recognizing violations under Title VII, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), and IHRA; compensatory damages; punitive damages; lost wages including back pay and front pay; attorney’s fees; and any other equitable relief deemed just by the court.
Representing Rebecca Zavala is attorney Jeffrey R. Kulwin from Kulwin, Masciopinto & Kulwin LLP based in Chicago. The case is identified as Case No. 1:25-cv-4268.