The most influential US workplace discrimination lawsuits

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Cases worth hundreds of millions can chip away at long-standing workplace inequality.

This is the latest story in The Diversity Box, our new series looking at representation in the workplace.

Most companies will be able to quickly point to their diversity scheme, whether it’s a well-thought out plan to create a more balanced workforce or a token public relations effort.

A lack of diversity can show itself in ugly ways, when workers are discriminated against or harassed due to their age, race, gender, sexuality, and more.

Often these instances are swept under the rug or shrugged off and go unreported. But sometimes, people fight back against discrimination – and win, punishing companies that allow workplace discrimination to happen. In the process, these cases raise awareness about the broader issues of discrimination, harassment, representation and diversity.

In the US, individuals can sue their employers for enormous sums. Here are some landmark lawsuits that have commanded headlines through the years.

News imageTiziana Alocci (Credit: Tiziana Alocci)Tiziana Alocci

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News imageTiziana Alocci (Credit: Tiziana Alocci)Tiziana Alocci

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News imageTiziana Alocci (Credit: Tiziana Alocci)Tiziana Alocci

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News imageTiziana Alocci (Credit: Tiziana Alocci)Tiziana Alocci

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Research by Miriam Quick. Design by Tiziana Alocci.

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