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A federal civil rights agency has launched its first lawsuit challenging a workplace diversity initiative since Donald Trump returned to office, accusing a Coca-Cola bottling plant of unlawful sex discrimination.
The US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed suit Tuesday against Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast in New Hampshire federal court. Regulators allege the company violated federal law by hosting a networking event in September 2024 that excluded male employees.
The two-day gathering, held at a Connecticut casino, was attended by about 250 female employees, according to the complaint. The commission said the event included a social reception, team-building exercises, recreational activities and speakers, including a top executive at Coca-Cola. Coca-Cola is not a defendant in the case.
First DEI lawsuit under Trump
The lawsuit represents an early test of claims by Trump administration officials that certain diversity, equity and inclusion programs constitute unlawful “reverse discrimination.” Trump has moved to dismantle DEI initiatives across the federal government, the private sector and higher education, arguing such efforts erode merit-based decision-making.
EEOC Chair Andrea Lucas, and other officials have said many common workplace DEI practices may violate federal law. The commission is investigating Nike and Northwestern Mutual over alleged discrimination against white workers. Last year, it also demanded information on DEI policies from 20 major law firms.
Even so, the action against the Coca-Cola bottler, owned by Kirin Holdings, a Japanese company, marks the first time the agency has claimed in court that a diversity-focused workplace program is unlawful.
Allegations of unequal access
The EEOC alleges that female employees who attended the event were excused from their regular duties without using paid time off. The company also covered hotel room charges, according to the complaint. Male employees were not permitted to attend.
Catherine Eschbach, the EEOC’s Acting General Counsel, said excluding a protected class from an employer-sponsored event violates federal law.
“The EEOC remains committed to ensuring that all employees – men and women alike – enjoy equal access to all aspects of their employment,” Eschbach said in a statement.
DEI initiatives encompass a range of policies and programs designed to promote fair treatment and full participation of historically underrepresented groups. Supporters argue such efforts address long-standing inequities, while critics contend they disadvantage other workers.
