CALIFORNIA – A former California State Parks employee is seeking approximately $4 million in a discrimination lawsuit. This lawsuit alleges that the agency discriminated against him based on his Mexican heritage hindered his advancement in the hierarchy, and failed to make reasonable accommodations for his disability, describing the case as a wake-up call regarding entrenched racism among some higher-ups.
Angel Alba, who previously worked as a maintenance supervisor at various state parks in Malibu, filed the lawsuit in 2018 in the Los Angeles County Superior Court against the agency and his former boss, Lynette Brody, after facing work-related issues for over a decade, according to court documents.
Closing arguments for the trial, which lasted approximately four weeks, concluded on Monday, April 15, 2024. The jury is expected to begin deliberations.
Alba, 48, shared his experience, describing a demoralizing environment marked by discrimination. He pointed out that there is a group of individuals within the department who perpetuate this culture of discrimination, despite Los Angeles being one of the most diverse areas in the state.
Among the allegations, Alba claimed that his former boss, Lynette Brody, called him an “arrogant Mexican,” among other derogatory remarks. However, Brody downplayed the claims during the trial, labeling them as exaggerated and noting her retirement nearly 8 years ago.
The dispute between Alba and the agency dates back to around 2007 when Alba filed a complaint alleging racial discrimination, retaliation, and sexual harassment against his wife.
Despite an investigation corroborating most of his claims, hostile treatment persisted, according to court documents.
Alba also alleges that he was denied promotions despite being qualified and that his disability was not adequately accommodated. He argues that he suffered back injuries since 2006 and developed severe anxiety in 2021, a situation that was not properly addressed by the agency.
During closing arguments, Michelle Logan-Stern from the California Department of Justice, representing the State Parks and Brody, presented a counter-narrative. She argued that Alba did not adequately perform his job and attempted to undermine his superiors.
Logan-Stern urged the jury to consider whether the managers’ actions were motivated by disability, race, or Alba’s conduct.
The workplace conflict had a significant impact on Alba and his family’s life. In addition to work-related stress, Alba experienced personal consequences, including a severe anxiety attack that landed him in the hospital.
Alba’s attorney, Michael Anderson, requested that the jury award compensation for years of alleged discrimination, harassment, and retaliation, as well as for lost income and uncovered medical leave periods.
Although Alba left his job at the State Parks approximately three years ago, his quest for justice continues in the courtroom. His case not only seeks financial compensation but also aims to highlight and address entrenched racism in some workplaces.
