Disney agreed to pay $43.25 million to settle a class-action lawsuit that accused the company of systematically paying women less than men with the same work experience. This was reported by Variety.
Plaintiffs’ attorneys filed a motion seeking approval of a settlement that would cover a wide range of Disney’s salaried employees in California. If the petition is accepted, thousands of women who have worked at Disney since April 1, 2015 will receive compensation for the pay gap.
The lawsuit was filed in 2019, alleging that Disney’s policies, including setting salaries for new employees, discriminated against women. According to a study commissioned by the plaintiffs, women at the company earned between 0.58% and 2% less than their male counterparts in similar positions.
The lawsuit named nine women as representatives of Disney employees. company financial analyst LaRhonda Rasmusen She discovered in 2017 that six men in her field earned significantly more than her, according to the statement. After complaining to management, her salary increased by $25,000, but she still received less than the average male colleague.
Disney lawyers denied the allegations, arguing that it was impossible to accurately compare skill and experience levels across a wide range of positions. In a statement, Disney defended its pay practices and said it was happy to pursue the case.
“We have always been committed to paying our employees fairly and have demonstrated that commitment throughout this matter, and we are glad to have resolved it.” – said a representative of the company.
