Stones River Country Club, a private golf club in Tennessee, has been the subject of a class-action lawsuit alleging sexual harassment, a hostile work environment, retaliation, pregnancy discrimination, and sexual discrimination. The lawsuit was filed in January 2023 by two former female employees of the club, who are seeking damages and injunctive relief on behalf of themselves and a proposed class of similarly situated individuals.
Allegations
The plaintiffs allege that they were subjected to a pervasive pattern of sexual harassment by male employees and supervisors at the club. The harassment included unwelcome sexual advances, offensive remarks, and physical contact. The plaintiffs also allege that they were retaliated against when they complained about the harassment, and that they were ultimately forced to resign from their jobs as a result of the hostile work environment.
Legal Claims
The plaintiffs’ lawsuit asserts a number of legal claims against Stones River Country Club, including:
-
Sexual harassment: The plaintiffs allege that they were subjected to sexual harassment in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex.
-
Hostile work environment: The plaintiffs allege that they were subjected to a hostile work environment in violation of Title VII. A hostile work environment exists when unwelcome sexual conduct is so severe or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, offensive, or abusive work environment.
-
Retaliation: The plaintiffs allege that they were retaliated against for complaining about sexual harassment in violation of Title VII. Retaliation occurs when an employer takes adverse action against an employee for complaining about discrimination or harassment.
-
Pregnancy discrimination: The plaintiffs allege that they were discriminated against on the basis of pregnancy in violation of the Pregnancy Discrimination Act. The PDA prohibits discrimination against employees who are pregnant, have recently been pregnant, or are planning to become pregnant.
-
Sexual discrimination: The plaintiffs allege that they were discriminated against on the basis of sex in violation of Title VII. Sex discrimination includes any form of employment discrimination based on gender.
Current Status of the Lawsuit
The Stones River Country Club lawsuit is ongoing. The parties are currently in the discovery phase of the litigation, which is the process of exchanging evidence and information. A trial date has not yet been set.
Potential Outcomes
If the plaintiffs are successful in their lawsuit, Stones River Country Club could be ordered to pay damages to the plaintiffs and the class of similarly situated individuals. The plaintiffs may also seek an injunction to prevent Stones River Country Club from continuing to engage in its alleged misconduct.
Impact on Stones River Country Club
The lawsuit could have a significant impact on Stones River Country Club, both financially and reputationally. If the club is found liable, it could face substantial damages payments. Additionally, the negative publicity surrounding the lawsuit could damage the club’s reputation and make it less attractive to potential members.
Conclusion
The Stones River Country Club lawsuit raises important concerns about the club’s workplace culture and its treatment of female employees. The outcome of the lawsuit could have implications for other private clubs and for employers in general.
