Federal judge in New York rules 'Karen' comment does not show discrimination, grants employer summary judgment
Key points
- On October 20, the court granted summary judgment to the employer on Title VII race and disability claims
- The court found the plaintiff identified no adverse action from being called 'Karen'
- HR Dive's roundup also notes more Glassdoor complaints about interview ghosting
On October 20, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York granted summary judgment to an employer on a White employee's Title VII race and disability claims. The employee said a colleague called her 'Karen', but the court found she identified no adverse action resulting from it. HR Dive's weekly roundup also cites Ludwig Institute data showing rising cost of living in 2024, and more complaints on Glassdoor about interview ghosting.
What employers should do
- Review how employee complaints are handled, ensuring allegations are documented and investigated
Policy details
- Jurisdiction
- U.S. District Court, Eastern District of New York
- Status
- Court ruling
- Effective date
- —
- Employers covered
- Employers subject to Title VII
- Official source
- Official source pending
Original report: HR Dive ↗Edited with AI assistance. Facts are based on official sources and original reports. For information only; not legal, immigration or insurance advice.