Tracy Cohen filed a complaint against luxury fashion designer Gucci
Tracy Cohen filed a complaint against luxury fashion designer Gucci, alleging that the firm subjected her to a toxic work environment, age discrimination, and mental health discrimination before terminating her for formally complaining about her working conditions. Cohen, a former employee who worked for Gucci for nearly 18 years, claims that her experience is indicative of a bigger pattern of corruption at the company.
According to the lawsuit, Cohen began working as a sales associate at Gucci's Chicago location in 2006 and rose to become the top salesperson by 2018, accounting for a sizable amount of the store's monthly revenues. Despite her accomplishment, Cohen argues that Gucci overestimated her sales target and failed to keep promises of awards and incentives.
Cohen claims that she was compelled to work around the clock, often on her mobile devices, and as a result, she developed anxiety and sadness. Despite raising concerns about her mental health and workload, Cohen claims that her bosses insulted her and diverted her travel incentives to younger coworkers.
In September 2022, Cohen requested assistance from Gucci's president but received no response. She then filed complaints with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Illinois Human Rights Department, alleging discrimination based on age, gender, and mental health concerns.
Despite her ongoing success at work, Cohen claims she was suspended and eventually fired by Gucci as reprisal for her complaints. The lawsuit claims Cohen was treated unfairly and seeks compensation for discrimination, retribution, emotional distress, abusive labor practices, and unfair earnings.
Tracy Cohen's case highlights the problems that working women confront, as well as the need of holding employers accountable for workplace discrimination.