Overview of the Lawsuit
A female employee of SpaceX has filed a lawsuit against the rocket company, alleging discrimination and retaliation. Michelle Dopak, a production coordinator at SpaceX, lodged the lawsuit in Los Angeles Superior Court, claiming that she was paid less than male colleagues and denied promotions.
Dopak further alleges that her married manager coerced her into a sexual relationship, resulting in a pregnancy. She asserts that SpaceX retaliated against her when she reported the affair after her manager’s departure in 2022. The lawsuit seeks unspecified damages.
Serious Allegations Against SpaceX
According to the lawsuit, Dopak’s manager offered her $100,000 to terminate her pregnancy in 2020, an offer she declined. The lawsuit also accuses SpaceX of colluding with her former manager to transfer $3.7 million in SpaceX stock to evade child support payments.
While attempts to contact the former manager were unsuccessful, SpaceX has not yet responded to requests for comment.
Inaction by Top Executives
The lawsuit implicates top SpaceX executives, including COO Gwynn Shotwell, of ignoring complaints of gender-based discrimination. Dopak alleges that she and two other female colleagues approached Shotwell in 2018 to address gender-related concerns but received no resolution.
Despite complaints of being passed over for promotions, receiving unequal pay, and facing ongoing harassment, Dopak claims SpaceX is attempting to force her resignation by increasing her workload and disregarding workplace accommodations.
SpaceX Facing Legal Challenges
This lawsuit adds to SpaceX’s legal woes, including a proposed class action lawsuit alleging underpayment of women and minority workers, as well as a suit by the civil rights arm of the Justice Department alleging discrimination against asylees and refugees.
Recent reports also revealed accusations of SpaceX executives joking about sexual harassment and terminating employees who reported concerns.
SpaceX has denied wrongdoing in previous cases brought by former employees.
Conclusion
The allegations brought forth by Michelle Dopak shed light on serious issues within SpaceX, underscoring the importance of addressing workplace discrimination and retaliation. As the lawsuit unfolds, it remains to be seen how SpaceX will respond to these accusations and navigate its legal challenges.
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