Feb. 10--Sara Lee discriminated against black employees by disproportionately assigning them to work in hazardous areas of a baking facility in Paris, Texas, attorneys representing the workers said Monday .
Workers were exposed to asbestos, mold and other toxins at the bakery, the attorneys said.
A settlement is being discussed. If one is not reached, the EEOC could file a lawsuit against Chicago-based Sara Lee.
Dan Fogleman, a spokesman with Tyson Foods, which now owns the Sara Lee brand, said the company doesn't tolerate the harassment and discrimination that is being alleged. He added that the company strives for diversity in its workforce, and for a positive and constructive work environment.
Sara Lee closed the Texas facility in 2011.
The lawyers said a two-year investigation by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission found that plant managers subjected black workers to racial slurs, intimidation and racial graffiti. Black employees were less likely than their white counterparts to be promoted, the lawyers said.
James Vagnini, an attorney representing some of the workers, said as many as 90 people faced severe discrimination, including 25 workers who filed complaints with the EEOC starting in 2011 and who triggered the investigation. About 30 workers are part of a discrimination lawsuit filed in early 2014.
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