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SpaceX Employee Files Lawsuit Alleging Discrimination and Retaliation
A recent lawsuit filed in California Superior Court by Michelle Dopak, a production coordinator at SpaceX headquarters, has brought to light serious allegations of sexual discrimination and retaliation within the company. Dopak claims that she was unfairly paid less than her male counterparts, denied promotions she rightfully deserved, and was subjected to workplace harassment, including insinuations that she only secured her position due to her appearance.
According to the lawsuit, Dopak and two female colleagues expressed their concerns regarding these issues to SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell in August 2018. The trio felt compelled to present their resumes and achievements to prove their worth, actions they assert no male colleagues at SpaceX would have to undertake. Despite their complaints, no actions were taken by Shotwell or the company.
Unacceptable Behavior
Following a management reorganization in January 2019, Dopak found herself under the supervision of a married man who allegedly coerced her into a sexual relationship that led to a pregnancy. The supervisor purportedly offered her money for an abortion, which she declined. Subsequently, he attempted to avoid child support payments, with the assistance of company higher-ups, according to Dopak.
The lawsuit contends that SpaceX management assisted the supervisor in transferring his shares of stock to evade child support, amounting to nearly $3.7 million. Despite the supervisor leaving the company in June 2022, Dopak took a medical leave of absence later that year due to the harassment and emotional distress caused by the situation.
Retaliation Allegations
Upon returning to work after her leave, Dopak claims her new supervisor assigned her unreasonably long hours in an attempt to make her fail and force her resignation. The lawsuit asserts that SpaceX purposely violated her medical accommodation needs to retaliate against her for raising complaints of sexual harassment, discrimination, and retaliation, seeking unspecified damages.
Space.com reached out to SpaceX for comment on these allegations but has not yet received a response from the company.
This lawsuit is just one of many that have been brought against SpaceX in recent years. The U.S. Department of Justice sued the company in 2023 for discriminatory practices against refugees and asylum recipients. Additionally, former employees have filed suits alleging discrimination against women and minorities, as well as negligence in workplace safety leading to injuries.
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