State of Minnesota Agrees, Absolute Drywall Allows Sexual Harassment and Rape
The Minnesota Department of Human Rights filed to join a lawsuit against Absolute Drywall after finding the company violated the Minnesota Human Rights Act by fostering a culture that allowed sexual harassment and rape to go unchecked.
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 Discrimination has no home in Minnesota
The Minnesota Human Rights Act prohibits discrimination in places like the workplace, schools, public transportation, and more.
The law exists to ensure that every Minnesotan has the opportunity to live with dignity and joy, free from discrimination.
In this case, we found Absolute Drywall violated the Minnesota Human Rights Act. When we find violations of the Minnesota Human Rights Act, we seek structural change so that what happened to Norma Izaguirre does not happen to anyone else.
About the case
Norma began working for Absolute Drywall as a drywall laborer in January 2021. An employee immediately and consistently sexually harassed Norma, made unwanted sexual advances, and assaulted her.
Here's what else you need to know:
- Norma reported the harassment to Absolute Drywall five times.
- The company failed to take any meaningful action to stop the harassment, allowing the harassment to continue.
- The company did not have any policies prohibiting sexual harassment or clear ways for employees to make sexual harassment complaints.
- In May 2021, the employee raped Norma at a worksite in Eagan.
- Absolute Drywall fired Norma because she reported the sexual harassment to the company.
We're seeking change
When our Department finds violations of the Minnesota Human Rights Act, we seek structural change.
That's why our complaint demands that Absolute Drywall have and enforce clear anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies. This is what the Minnesota Human Rights Act requires of all employers.
Absolute Drywall’s employees, including employees who speak Spanish, must know about the policies and can easily report sexual harassment, assault, and other forms of discrimination.
Sexual harassment in the construction industry
Minnesota has one of the highest percentages of women working in construction. At the same time, sexual harassment in the construction industry is a prevalent issue.
Under the law, employers are required to prevent and stop discrimination – this means both prime and subcontractors.
 Experienced discrimination?
If you believe you have been discriminated against, contact the Minnesota Department of Human Rights by submitting this online form.
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