Snap has agreed to a $15 million settlement with California’s Civil Rights Department to resolve allegations of sexual harassment, discrimination, and retaliation.
This settlement concludes a more-than-three-year investigation into claims of employment discrimination, equal pay violations, and sexual harassment at the Santa Monica-based company.
Most settlement funds will be allocated to current and former female employees who worked at Snap from 2014 onwards.
Although Snap denies the allegations, it settled to avoid a prolonged legal battle.
Company spokesperson Russ Caditz-Peck said: “We care deeply about our commitment to maintain a fair and inclusive environment at Snap.
“We do not believe we have any ongoing systemic pay equity, discrimination, harassment, or retaliation issues against women.”
The allegations include claims that women at Snap were discouraged from applying for promotions.
They were also allegedly subjected to unwelcome sexual advances, and faced other forms of harassment.Â
“Women are entitled to equality in every job, in every workplace, and in every industry”
The Civil Rights Department’s complaint detailed a toxic office culture dominated by men.
It claimed female employees who complained about harassment were allegedly denied promotions, received negative performance reviews, or were fired.Â
Male managers were accused of routinely promoting male employees over more qualified women.
Women in engineering roles also faced significant barriers to advancement.
Kevin Kish, director of California’s Civil Rights Department, said: “This settlement with Snapchat demonstrates a shared commitment to a California where all workers have a fair chance.
“Women are entitled to equality in every job, in every workplace, and in every industry.”
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Snap’s settlement includes several measures to address these issues.
The company will hire an independent consultant to review and recommend improving its pay and promotion policies and workplace training programs.
Additionally, an outside monitor will audit Snap’s handling of sexual harassment and discrimination complaints.
It will also report the findings to the Civil Rights Department.Â
Snap will also inform employees about their rights to report harassment or discrimination without fear of retaliation and ensure they complete training on preventing workplace issues.
Caditz-Peck added: “For several years now, we have successfully implemented tools and governance to achieve pay equity.
“We will continue to invest in policies to ensure team members are valued and paid equitably for their work.”
