Kate Lynn Blatt, a transwoman who alleges pervasive anti-LGBT bias at her former worksite, is suing in federal court.
On Aug. 15, Blatt filed suit against Cabela’s Retail Inc., seeking in excess of $150,000 in damages.
The lawsuit contends that Cabela’s violated state and federal laws that protect transgender workers, including laws against gender-stereotyping.
Cabela’s is a retail chain headquartered in Nebraska that specializes in outdoor recreation merchandise. Blatt, of Pottsville, worked as a seasonal stocker at Cabela’s retail facility in Hamburg from September 2006 to March 2007.
According to Blatt’s lawsuit, anti-LGBT bias at Cabela’s created a hostile workplace during much of her employment. Coworkers hurled slurs at her including “he/she,” “ladyboy,” “fag,” “freak,” “gay fruit” and “confused sicko.” She was passed over for promotional opportunities, and denied access to the female restroom.
The suit also stated one manager allegedly suggested that Blatt might rape another woman if she were to use the female restroom. Management also impeded Blatt’s ability to wear female attire, and to have a name-tag displaying her legal name. Additionally, Blatt was isolated from coworkers and required to work a late-night shift.
“Blatt was required to work on the third shift at all times,” the lawsuit alleges. “It is Blatt’s belief that said requirement was enacted in order to keep her out of the sight of customers.”
Blatt repeatedly complained to management about alleged illegal discrimination at Cabela’s.
But instead of resolving the issues, management allegedly retaliated against Blatt by dismissing her on the pretext that she threatened another worker, according to the lawsuit.
“Rather than cause the discriminatory conduct to cease, [Cabela’s] terminated Blatt’s employment, allegedly due to an altercation with an employee,” the lawsuit states.
Blatt allegedly threatened the coworker’s son, though Blatt contends she didn’t even know the worker had a son.
A jury trial has been requested, and the case has been assigned to U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Schmehl.
Earlier this year, the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission ruled that Blatt probably was discriminated against by Cabela’s.
Blatt, 33, expressed hope that her lawsuit will help bring about better working conditions for the LGBT community.
“I’m ecstatic that it’s been filed, and I’m also optimistic that I’ll be duly compensated for my losses,” she said.
Joe Arterburn, a spokesperson for Cabela’s, said the company cannot comment on pending litigation.