Corporate Discrimination: Nigerian Lawyer Alleges ‘Diversity Hire’ Deception After Being Fired for Addressing Inaction Against Racism

A Chicago-based Black attorney has filed a lawsuit against her former law firm, claiming she was "unceremoniously fired" in retaliation for raising concerns about discrimination in a racially hostile workplace that she alleges was largely ignored. Ashley Ogedegbe joined McDermott Will & Emery in October 2022, leaving a previous firm with hopes of working in a “collaborative and inclusive” environment. However, her lawsuit details that such inclusivity was not extended to Black professionals, particularly Black women. The suit highlights a lack of action against “egregious and overt racism” at the firm. Ogedegbe is particularly troubled by a diversity program where associates displayed numerous racist remarks anonymously. Following her complaints about workplace discrimination, Ogedegbe was purportedly assigned diminished responsibilities and given negative performance evaluations. Ultimately, she was dismissed without consulting the partners she frequently collaborated with. Her suit seeks punitive damages, attorney fees, and reinstatement, asserting that McDermott has "shown a remarkable apathy" toward diversity in its hiring practices. (Credit: Wigdor law firm/Google Maps)