Facts

On October 4, 2019, Akashni Bahn filed suit against the City and County of San Francisco, along with several sergeants and officers. As an Indian female born in Fiji, her complaint alleged several causes of action pertaining to discrimination and harassment based on national origin and disability, violations of Fair Employment Housing Act for retaliation, wrongful termination and failure to accommodate. She began her employment on March 25, 2019 which was terminated on May 23, 2019.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS: Plaintiff contended that she experienced several instances of discrimination and harassment leading to her wrongful termination. For example, plaintiff was scrutinized and punished for her non-Caucasian hair; after two days in the emergency room due to the flu, she was forced to go back to work the next day, and perform physical activities even though she was still ill. Moreover, plaintiff was yelled at, insulted, and generally pointed out. The mental and physical toll traumatized plaintiff, causing visible weight loss and fatigue. She also stated that she suffered post traumatic stress disorder due to defendants' conduct.

DEFENDANTS' CONTENTIONS: Defendants denied all contentions, noting, among others, that any employment actions towards plaintiff were based on legitimate, sufficient, and non-discriminatory reasons.

Result

The City and County of San Francisco Board of Supervisors authorized $175,000 to settle plaintiff's employment dispute claims.