A former employee has filed a lawsuit against her previous employer, alleging pregnancy discrimination and wrongful termination. On September 25, 2024, Jennifer Mera lodged a complaint in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York against Rockall Construction Corp and its owner, Gerald Reid.
According to court documents, Mera worked as a bookkeeper for Rockall Construction Corp from February 8, 2021, until March 6, 2024. She claims that after informing her employer of her pregnancy in June 2023, she faced discriminatory actions that ultimately led to her dismissal. The complaint details several incidents where Mera was treated unfairly compared to other employees. For instance, upon returning from a vacation in July 2023, she was required to work all five days in the office instead of her previous schedule of two days at the office and three days working from home. Additionally, Mera alleges that Gerald Reid began publicly criticizing her work and making derogatory comments about her performance.
Mera's legal action cites violations of multiple laws including the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, New York State Human Rights Law (NYSHRL), and New York City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL). The plaintiff argues that these actions created a hostile work environment and amounted to wrongful termination based on her pregnancy and subsequent disability due to childbirth complications.
The lawsuit seeks various forms of relief including injunctive and declaratory relief, compensatory and liquidated damages, punitive damages, attorneys' fees, and other appropriate remedies. Specifically, Mera is asking for back pay, front pay, compensation for mental anguish and humiliation, as well as punitive damages under federal law.
Representing Mera are attorneys John Troy, Aaron Schweitzer, and Tiffany Troy from Troy Law PLLC. Case I.D. 24-cv-06779.