DETROIT – The National Action Network and others protested outside of a construction site in Corktown.
They’re demanding electrical contractors be taken off the job after a federal lawsuit alleged Black employees were subjected to racist slurs and threats. United Electrical Contractors is one of the subcontractors of the Godfrey Hotel.
Former employees have sued United Electrical Contractors, alleging a pattern of harassment and discrimination. The lawsuit was introduced in January, and litigation is pending.
“When I was working there I would hear racist comments on a near daily basis toward me and Mexican employees on the job sites,” former UEC employee Tyler Richardson said.
Vance Murray worked for UEC for almost six years.
“I want to see this lawsuit make companies like United Electrical and other companies know that this is not acceptable,” Vance Murray said.
The lawsuit alleges racial slurs, threats and discriminatory job assignments are commonplace.
“Our taxes are going to fund a company that is allowing its foreman to say, ‘boy go back to your slave ship’ or to say, ‘boy I am going to pull my whip out on you.’ Our taxes, Detroit residents, all residents, Michigan residents ought to be frustrated and infuriated,” attorney Richard Mack said.
Detroit City Council member Mary Walters called it unacceptable.
“I can assure you that this company will be coming before Detroit City Council for a hearing,” Waters said. “That’s absolutely the truth.”
