After 24 Years of Racial Harassment, Black Worker Sues West Virginia Town for Settlement Agreement Violations

A Black man, Lamar Johnson, who has spent 24 years as a custodian and laborer for Morgantown, West Virginia, is suing the city for racial discrimination and breach of a 2020 settlement agreement that committed to improving his work conditions. At 48, Johnson began his career in public works shortly after serving in the Marine Corps, assigned to various low-paid roles involving considerable manual work amidst predominantly white colleagues.Despite his tenure, Johnson claims he has never received a promotion, while less experienced white coworkers have climbed the ranks. Incidents of racial hostility, including derogatory slurs and exclusion from training opportunities, exacerbated his situation. Following a mediation session in 2020, which resulted in a confidential settlement, Johnson alleges the city failed to fulfill its commitments, only providing minimal training in a new purchase order system. His suit outlines a persistent pattern of discrimination, seeking a jury trial for lost wages, emotional distress, and legal fees. The city has yet to respond to the allegations. (Photo: Lamar Johnson)