Hispanic Workers Win Major Sexual Harassment Case Against L&M Construction

(Metropolitan Washington Council, AFL-CIO)Federal contractor L&M Construction has agreed to settle allegations that it permitted sexual harassment, retaliated against workers who complained about a hostile work environment, and interfered with a federal investigation, the U.S. Department of Labor announced last week. LiUNA’s Mid-Atlantic Regional Organizing Coalition has been assisting the workers (Wrongfully Fired Construction Workers Demand Their Jobs Back 6/15/2012). "These workers demonstrated that they didn't have to put up with abuse in their workplace," said LiUNA Organizer Felix Rodriguez. "They came together, they fought, and they ultimately won. They've sent a message that will resonate in this abusive asbestos industry. If you come together you can win. You don't ever have to put up with abuse."  Added Office of Federal Contract Compliance Program (OFCCP) Director Patricia A. Shiu, "I hope this settlement sends a clear message to federal contractors — and to the men and women who work for them — that OFCCP will not tolerate retaliation against workers who exercise their rights, nor will we tolerate any efforts to interfere with our investigations." L&M Construction will pay $112,573 in back wages to the 14 terminated workers and will make job offers as opportunities become available. photo courtesy LiUNA