UPS Driver Wins $237.6 Million in Racial Discrimination and Retaliation Lawsuit

Tahvio Gratton, a Black UPS driver, won a $237.6 million jury verdict in a racial discrimination lawsuit, which may be the largest of its kind in Washington state. Gratton alleged he was subjected to a hostile work environment, laid off in favor of less experienced white drivers, and was fired in retaliation after filing multiple grievances against the company. The jury awarded him $39.6 million for emotional distress and an additional $198 million in punitive damages. UPS has expressed disappointment with the outcome and plans to appeal, arguing that Gratton was fired for assaulting a coworker, a claim Gratton and his legal team maintain was pretextual. The case was tried in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Washington.

The lawsuit was initially filed in October 2022, with Gratton later amending his complaint. The trial commenced on September 9, 2024, and concluded with the jury ruling in favor of Gratton, rejecting UPS’ motion for summary judgment. Gratton’s attorneys praised the verdict, stating it sends a strong message against workplace discrimination and retaliation. The case has attracted significant attention, partly due to the size of the award, which could set a precedent for future discrimination claims.