A Complaint Filed Against Phoenix Suns: Andrea Trischan Seeks $60 Million in Damages
Andrea Trischan, the former program manager of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) for the Phoenix Suns, is making headlines with a high-profile complaint filed with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the civil rights division of the Arizona Attorney General's office. Trischan, who served in her role from September 2022 to July 2023, alleges wrongful termination and is seeking $60 million in damages.
Allegations of a Hostile Work Environment
Trischan's tenure with the Suns was marred by controversy from the start. She claims that her stint with the organization was filled with overt racist comments and a hostile work environment that went unaddressed despite her reports to human resources (HR) and executive leadership. Trischan communicated her concerns to Kim Corbitt, the head of HR for the Suns, which ultimately fell on deaf ears, according to her allegations.
The backdrop to this complaint includes a range of accusations against previous leadership within the Suns organization. The NBA had previously suspended Robert Sarver, the former owner of the Phoenix Suns, due to findings of inappropriate workplace conduct. These incidents form part of the broader environment that Trischan asserts contributed to her challenging working conditions.
Contentious Diversity Council Appointments
Trischan has also raised concerns about the organization's decision to appoint several executives accused of misconduct to a newly established diversity council. The purpose of the diversity council, as described by a Suns spokesperson, "is to listen to the diversity data and information on DE&I initiatives to continue to further the organization's DE&I commitment." However, Trischan contends that these appointments sent a contradictory message about the commitment to fostering a genuinely inclusive workplace.
Performance Improvement Plan and Termination
In late May 2023, Trischan claims she was placed on a performance improvement plan, which she argues was a retaliatory measure following her complaints. By July 2023, just ten months into her role, Trischan was terminated, a move she views as wrongful and emblematic of the hostile environment she endured.
Legal Representation and Suns' Response
Trischan is represented by attorney Sheree Wright, who is vocal about the mistreatment her client alleges. "… [Trischan] endured overt racist comments and a hostile work environment that went unaddressed despite being reported to HR and executive leadership," Wright asserts.
The Phoenix Suns, however, have categorically denied any wrongdoing. Stacey Mitch, the senior vice president of communications for the Suns and Mercury, firmly refuted Trischan's claims. "A former employee who last worked for the organization in 2023 was terminated after less than 10 months due to repeated failure to perform her job duties," Mitch stated.
Mitch further criticized the allegations, describing the complaint as baseless and financially motivated. "This individual filed a baseless charge with a state agency and is now trying to use ESPN reporting from 2022, specific to previous ownership, to make egregious claims in order to support her ridiculous demand for $60 million from the Suns organization," she said. Mitch also assured that the organization remains committed to upholding high standards for workplace conduct and DE&I initiatives.
Ongoing Investigation by Arizona Civil Rights Division
Amidst these allegations, the Suns have committed to participating in the ongoing review by the Arizona Civil Rights Division (ACRD). The organization is confident that the review will absolve them of any wrongdoing. "The Suns continue to participate in the [Arizona Civil Rights Division] review in good faith. We are confident that after the ACRD completes its review of Ms. Trischan's charge, the ACRD will confirm that Ms. Trischan's claims are factually and legally baseless," stated a Suns spokesperson.
With Mat Ishbia finalizing the purchase of the team in February 2023 and former team president and CEO Jason Rowley resigning earlier the same month, the organization is undergoing significant transitions. These changes come at a time when the Phoenix Suns are striving to rebuild their reputation and reaffirm their commitment to creating an inclusive and respectful workplace for all employees.
The courts and ongoing investigations by the ACRD are expected to shed more light on the veracity of the claims made by Trischan. As the Phoenix Suns navigate this turbulent period, the sports world will be watching closely to see how these legal battles unfold and what implications they may have for the organization's future.