PHILADELPHIA – A Mechanicsburg woman is suing Vantage Foods PA Inc. alleging that she was unlawfully terminated, harassed and discriminated against.
Sandra Valencia filed a complaint on Dec. 11 in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania against Vantage Foods PA Inc. and Vantage Foods US LP, citing violations of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and 1991, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act and the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act, hostile work environment, retaliation and other counts.
Valencia, 42, began her employment with the defendant in 2014 in the position of machine operator and claims to have performed excellently during her time there, the suit states. Despite her efforts and hard work, Valencia allegedly was singled out by one of her supervisors, who refused to provide her with certain training but would train younger female employees. When Valencia complained of age discrimination, a different supervisor allegedly began to make sexual advances, which included suggestive body movements and comments. When the plaintiff refused these advances, the manager allegedly became more aggressive and ultimately fired her on Feb. 1. Valencia is suing the defendant, alleging unlawful termination, retaliation and sexual harassment.
Valencia is seeking compensation for all wrongs committed and damages suffered. She is represented by Sidney L. Gold of Sidney L. Gold and Associates PC in Philadelphia.
U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania Case number 1:15-cv-02365