Kimberly L. Cox filed the lawsuit in federal court in Texas on August 4, citing civil rights violations, after her employment was terminated following a work injury. Patrick R. Donahoe, as Postmaster General, is also named as a defendant.

According to the lawsuit, Cox worked as a letter carrier for the Kilgore Post Office. She claims that in July and August of 2012, she reported to Postmaster McQuiston alleged instances of discrimination against white employees by a black supervisor, but McQuiston took no action.

Cox also claims that on August 21, 2012, she sustained on-the-job injuries after tripping on a curb. Cox claims that she had three days of sick leave, but was then told to report to work and was made to sit in a room for eight hours per day. 

According to the complaint, Cox was scheduled to be off work on August 30, 2012, and she attended an estate sale, where McQuiston observed her and subsequently asked the Office of the Inspector General to investigate whether Cox exceeded her medical restrictions. On August 31, 2012, Cox claims that McQuiston placed her on emergency leave. She claims that her employment was terminated in November 2012.

The lawsuit alleges gender and race discrimination and retaliation. The lawsuit was filed in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, Marshall Division. Cox seeks damages and attorney’s fees.

Gregory D. Jordan is an employment lawyer. To learn more, visit http://www.theaustintriallawyer.com or call 512-419-0684.