CAIR-Chicago Secures Landmark $475K Settlement in Religious and National Origin Discrimination Case
(CHICAGO, IL, 1/11/2024) - The Chicago chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Chicago) has successfully resolved one of the most significant employment cases involving religious and national origin discrimination in Federal Court in Illinois, securing a $475,000 settlement on behalf of its client, Ramtin Sabet.
The case sheds light on the pervasive issue of workplace harassment and discrimination and sends a powerful message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
Ramtin Sabet, a former police officer for the City of North Chicago since 2007, faced relentless harassment and belittling from his co-workers based on his religion (Islam) and national origin (Iranian). The hostile work environment created by constant Islamophobic comments, insults, and ridicule ultimately led to Mr. Sabet’s termination in 2016. His meticulous documentation of these incidents, including insulting events, derogatory statements about him and his family, and frequent Islamophobic comments, became crucial evidence of the toxic atmosphere he endured.
SEE: Iranian immigrant police officer claims he was fired for complaining about anti-Muslim comments
Despite Mr. Sabet’s efforts to address the harassment by bringing complaints to his supervisor orally and in writing, they were consistently ignored or met with adverse consequences such as BEING denied promotions and training opportunities. Shockingly, the investigation into his complaints was turned against him, culminating in his wrongful termination by the Police Department.
Initiated in 2016, the multi-count complaint faced a Motion for Summary Judgment, resolutely denied by Judge Dow in February 2020. The case was set for trial in November 2023, prompting both parties to reach a settlement agreement.
Phil Robertson, Litigation Director of CAIR-Chicago, and lead counsel on the case, expressed the significance of this victory for the community and emphasized that workplace bullying and harassment will not be tolerated, irrespective of demographic factors and who is the perpetrator. Robertson also underscored the broader impact on government entities, including police departments, stating that these injustices will be pursued until justice is achieved.
“This is a tremendous win for the community in the future. It shows that this type of bullying and harassment at work will not be permitted, condoned, or pushed quietly under the rug, regardless of your demographic,” said Robertson.
Ramtin Sabet shared his thoughts on the resolution, stating, “This settlement represents not only a personal victory but a triumph for everyone who has faced discrimination at the workplace. It re-affirms that standing up against injustice can lead to positive change. I am grateful to CAIR-Chicago for standing with me through the hardships of all these years, and to the Almighty Allah for giving me the strength and courage to persevere even while facing constant harassment and injustice in North Chicago.”
“The successful outcome of this case required tenacity, determination, and persistence over many years from the legal team, and I am so proud of them for it. We hope this success inspires others to speak out against injustice and discrimination in their own lives. Bullying has nowhere to hide with us.”
The resolution of this case serves as a crucial step in holding accountable those who perpetrate workplace discrimination and sends a clear message that justice will prevail. Unfortunately, for Mr. Sabet, his path to justice was unduly prolonged, highlighting the need for continued efforts to eradicate such systemic issues
CAIR-Chicago is an office of CAIR, America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. Its mission is to defend civil rights, fight bigotry, and promote tolerance and understanding.
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CONTACT: Ahmed Rehab, Executive Director of CAIR-Chicago, arehab@cair.com; Erin P.R. Davis, MCM, Communications Coordinator of CAIR-Chicago, 773-802-8786, epdavis@cair.com.