Class-action suit alleges Dell layoffs targeted women

[OhioChick]

Wednesday, October 29, 2008
By ANDREW D. SMITH / The Dallas Morning News

Four women who once worked as executives in Dell Inc.'s human resources department have filed a $500 million class-action suit against the company, alleging that recent layoffs have unfairly targeted women and workers over 40.

According to a press release from the plaintiffs, the suit also alleges that Dell systematically blocks women from reaching the top levels of power.

The suit -- which was filed in US District Court in Northern California -- seeks to change Dell's practices in pay, job placement and termination. It also seeks $500 million in cash damages for "thousands" of current and former Dell employees.

Dell, which is based in Round Rock, Texas, vigorously denies all the allegations.

"We believe the claims in the suit are without merit," said David Frink, a spokesman for the company. "We don't tolerate discrimination in any aspect of employment and will vigorously defend claims that we are not acting in accordance with the law."

Shares of the company fell roughly 7 percent.

http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/bus/stories/103008dnbusdellsuit.15eca3eaf.html

:grr:

[Azlady]

1. Well, it will be interesting to see if they can

win this case. The glass ceiling is very much alive and well with women and older workers... bad boys Dell... bad boys!

[Stargazer09]

2. I'm not surprised

Dell's business practices have been shady for years. My husband bought a computer from them two years ago, and they used a bait-and-switch on the financing. We won't deal with them ever again.

Good luck to those women! I'd love to see Dell go under.

[babylonsister]

3. Ruh roh. I'm glad to see this suit. You go, ladies! nt

[ihavenobias]

4. K & R, to the greatest n/t

[Triana]

5. Dell is a big GOP supporter. Go figure. Pfft. Hardly surprising. n/t