No men allowed: EEOC sues over women-only networking event
Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast meant well. The well-meaning question that likely started the discussion: “Why not have an event showing our appreciation for our female employees?” The answer? Read on.
Let the good times roll!
The company scouted out venues for the all-female retreat, settling on the 240-acre Mohegan Sun Casino and Resort in Connecticut.
The Program. Here are a few agenda items from the retreat:
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A social reception;
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Team building exercises;
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Recreational activities including golf, gaming, and night clubs; and
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Presentations by various executives on their career paths at the company.
The Incentives. To encourage attendance, the company offered the following perks:
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Employees were excused from all working duties during the two-day event.
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They were paid their regular compensation for the two days.
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They weren’t required to use paid time off or vacation days for the two days.
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The company paid for rooms, activities, and food and beverages—but I imagine no Pepsi!
Not surprisingly, 250 or so female employees signed up. No male employees were invited.
EEOC files class action