Sexual Harassment Review
Mitsubishi! > Issues > Employment Discrimination > EEOC (U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission) > Press Release > EEOC Responds to Mitsubishi Motor Hiring Lynn Martin
Abstract: EEOC Responds to Mitsubishi Motor Hiring Lynn Martin
May 14, 1996. Washington. Statement of EEOC Chairman Gilbert F. Casellas:
WASHINGTON -- I understand that Mitsubishi Motor Manufacturing of America (MMMA) announced this morning that it has hired former U.S. Labor Secretary Lynn Martin to conduct a "third-party" review of the company's workplace policies and procedures. The EEOC, of course, supports any effort by an employer to eradicate discrimination in the workplace through education and training, and indeed the agency will be happy to offer our technical assistance in that area. I must emphasize, however, that the initiative announced today in no way affects the EEOC's pending litigation against MMMA.
Given the history of this case, the EEOC is concerned that the third-party review not interfere with the private plaintiffs, the members of the class, or the jurisdiction of the court. We will, therefore, be monitoring this program closely to prevent even the appearance of intimidation of or retaliation against plaintiffs or witnesses involved in any of the litigation. The EEOC will make every effort to ensure that the judicial process is not undermined nor circumvented.
With regard to the effect of the third-party review on the prospect of settlement of the litigation, I note that the lawsuit continues and that we have no information to suggest the likelihood of settlement in the foreseeable future.
For complete text of EEOC's press release: Statement of Chairman Gilbert F. Casellas in Response to Mitsubishi Motor Manufacturing of America Announcement (May 14, 1996)
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Sexual harassment lawsuit cases against Mitsubishi Motors Manufacturing at Normal Plant
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