Racism

Associate Sues Firm Alleging It's A Modern Version Of An 'Old-Fashioned Southern Plantation'

She says she was used as a 'diversity prop.'

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Sharika Robinson

An associate is suing the North Carolina-based regional firm of Robinson, Bradshaw & Hinson for racial discrimination, alleging, inter alia, the firm falsely advertises itself as caring and promoting diversity and inclusion but that image is no more than “another cynical marketing program.”

In the complaint, Shakira Robinson alleges the image of a diverse firm is used to lure clients:

In truth, Robinson Bradshaw secretly remains [a] ‘good ol’ boys club’ dominated by White male partners. The Firm uses minorities and women lawyers as ‘diversity props’ to impress clients while overtly, systematically, implicitly, and intentionally discriminating against and oppressing them.

The complaint goes on to describe a firm holiday party for the black lawyers of Robinson Bradshaw where it’s alleged discussing racial issues was banned. It’s described in the complaint as “an early signal [plaintiff] had unknowingly been recruited to a contemporary version of an old-fashioned Southern plantation.”

As reported by Law.com, Robinson Bradshaw’s general counsel, Kate Maynard, denied the allegations in the complaint on behalf of the firm:

“Robinson Bradshaw denies Sharika Robinson’s claims, and specifically denies that the firm discriminated against her in any way,” Maynard said in the statement. “We are committed to diversity and inclusion, as evidenced by our attorneys’ contributions to the firm, profession and community as a whole.”

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The complaint includes federal causes of action for disparate treatment, hostile work environment, and unlawful retaliation as well as a fraud claim under North Carolina’s Unfair and Deceptive Trade Practices Act.

Read the full complaint below.

headshotKathryn Rubino is a Senior Editor at Above the Law, and host of The Jabot podcast. AtL tipsters are the best, so please connect with her. Feel free to email her with any tips, questions, or comments and follow her on Twitter (@Kathryn1).

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