Morgan v. Publix Super Markets, Inc. et al

Ashley Morgan, an African-American former store manager, filed a lawsuit against Publix Super Markets, Inc. on December 3, 2018, in the Northern District of Georgia. She alleged that during her employment she faced racial discrimination, a hostile work environment, and retaliation. Morgan claimed a subordinate called her a “black bitch,” and when she complained, Publix failed to remedy the situation and instead intensified scrutiny, issued unwarranted discipline, and constructively discharged her. She asserted claims under Title VII and 42 U.S.C. § 1981. Publix moved to dismiss certain claims. The court partially granted the motion, allowing the core discrimination and retaliation claims to proceed while dismissing others. The case highlighted persistent issues of racial bias in corporate workplaces and drew attention to employer accountability.

The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Georgia partially denied and partially granted Publix’s motion to dismiss. The claims for race discrimination and retaliation under Title VII and Section 1981 were allowed to proceed. The case later settled before trial.

Whether Publix Super Markets subjected Ashley Morgan to race-based discrimination, a hostile work environment, and unlawful retaliation in violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act and 42 U.S.C. § 1981.

The case brought attention to racial discrimination and retaliation in major retail corporations, prompting discussions about diversity training, workplace culture, and the enforcement of civil rights protections in the southern United States.