Retaliation Claims Against National Association of Realtors
A lawsuit filed by former employee Pooja Sheth against the National Association of Realtors (NAR) alleges retaliation following her reports of sexual harassment during her tenure at the organization. The claims have drawn considerable attention, particularly in light of a recent exposé highlighting similar concerns within the organization.
Background of the Case
Sheth, who began her employment with NAR in May 2014, was terminated from her position in October 2019. In her suit, she asserts that her dismissal was a direct result of discrimination and retaliation after she lodged an internal complaint regarding unfair treatment with several NAR executives, including senior vice president Donna Gland, talent director Linda Russell, and chief legal counsel Katie Johnson.
Claims of Discrimination and Harassment
In her complaint, Sheth stated that throughout her employment, she consistently met or exceeded performance expectations imposed by NAR. However, she contends that she experienced various forms of discrimination based on her sex and national origin. Specific allegations include:
- Sexual harassment
- Unequal employment terms and conditions
- Failure to promote
Additionally, Sheth stated she first raised concerns about discriminatory practices in June 2019. In December of the same year, she reached a settlement agreement with NAR concerning her formal complaints of discrimination and retaliation.
Allegations of Retaliation
Following the settlement, Sheth claims NAR subjected her to multiple acts of retaliation. These alleged incidents include:
- Refusal to provide a neutral employment reference
- Encouraging employees to engage in cyberstalking
She also reported receiving threatening texts from certain NAR employees, including messages with alarming content such as “kill yourself” and “rat.”
Current Status of the Case
The court has so far dismissed Sheth’s claims without prejudice, allowing her until May 13 to address concerns raised by the judge regarding her allegations in an amended complaint. A status hearing for this case is scheduled for May 27.
In July 2024, NAR filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit, marking a critical point in the legal proceedings.
Broader Implications
This case comes amidst increasing scrutiny of NAR, particularly following an exposé published by The New York Times in August 2023. The report detailed numerous allegations of sexual harassment and a pervasive “culture of fear” within the organization, with many claims directed towards then-NAR president Kenny Parcell, who resigned shortly after the publication.
As this case unfolds, it continues to raise significant questions about workplace culture and accountability within the National Association of Realtors.
