**Former Employee’s Tardiness Results in Multimillion-Dollar Win: NYC Gym Ordered to Pay Over $11 Million in Discrimination Lawsuit**
In a surprising twist, a woman fired for her habitual tardiness is set to become a multimillionaire. Robynn Europe, a former personal training manager at a prestigious New York City gym, has been awarded over $11 million in a discrimination case. Altogether, a 10-month rollercoaster that ultimately sheds light on the harsh reality of workplace discrimination.
Robynn Europe, a 39-year-old black woman, found herself at the center of a legal battle after being fired for reportedly showing up late 47 times during her brief 10-month stint managing personal trainers at an exclusive Upper East Side gym. Europe’s employer, Equinox, claimed her consistent tardiness led to her termination; however, the former Oberlin College art student accused the company of racial discrimination, igniting a massive discrimination lawsuit.
Court documents showed that Europe indeed violated the company’s policy on punctuality, receiving a disciplinary “Record of Discussion” for her late arrivals. Nevertheless, Europe argued her dismissal was fueled by racism and claimed that her tardiness was simply a pretext to fire her. The lawsuit against Equinox and three employees alleged that Europe was discriminated against based on her sex, race, and disability and that the company failed to investigate complaints of racially and sexually inappropriate behavior.
Equinox denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that her termination was justified and that they do not “tolerate discrimination in any form.” However, the jury sided with Europe, awarding her $10 million in punitive damages and $1.25 million for alleged distress. The company has since filed a motion asking the court to reconsider the case, arguing that the jury was “guided by sympathy and emotion.” Despite their objections, Europe’s lawyer, Susan Crumiller, celebrated the judgment, stating that it sends a “loud message” to corporations that overlook harassment and discrimination in the workplace.
**Discrimination Will Not Be Tolerated: Jury Delivers Swift Judgment for Former Employee in High-Stakes Case**
