“Like Monkeys”: Lawsuit Alleges Black Workers Faced Racism and Retaliation at Colorado Wood Firm

Seven former Black employees of Woodgrain, Inc., a global wood products manufacturer, have filed a federal lawsuit claiming they were dismissed after voicing concerns about racial slurs and discriminatory practices at the Aurora, Colorado, location. Their lawsuit, presented on May 21 in U.S. District Court in Colorado, reveals a hostile environment that intensified following Woodgrain's acquisition of Trimco Millwork and the arrival of a new general manager, Steven Nybo.The plaintiffs argue that Nybo, seeking to transform company culture, replaced experienced Black employees with less qualified white candidates. Disparities in pay were evident, with new white hires reportedly earning more than long-tenured Black workers. Instances of blatant racism, including derogatory comments from the new operations manager, Jay Moore, were documented.Despite complaints escalating to HR, management offered little support, leading to further retaliation against the plaintiffs. Their lawsuit seeks damages for lost wages, emotional distress, and punitive action against Woodgrain, which has denied the allegations and asserted a commitment to diversity in hiring practices.