Andrea Trischan Files Complaint Against Phoenix Suns Alleging Wrongful Termination and Hostile Work Environment
Andrea Trischan, former program manager of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) for the Phoenix Suns, has filed an official complaint with both the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Arizona attorney general's office’s civil rights division. Trischan, who served the organization from September 2022 until her termination in July 2023, is seeking $60 million in damages, alleging wrongful termination and a hostile work environment.
Trischan's tenure with the Suns was marred by controversies and concerns, particularly regarding the handling of DE&I initiatives. She expressed her dismay at the decision to appoint executives accused of misconduct to a newly established diversity council, a move she found counterproductive to the purpose of promoting genuine diversity and inclusion. Her concerns were communicated to Kim Corbitt, the head of human resources for the Suns.
According to Trischan, her vocal stance on these issues led to her placement on a performance improvement plan in late May 2023, culminating in her firing two months later. Trischan, represented by attorney Sheree Wright, claims she endured overt racist remarks and a hostile work environment that persisted despite being reported to HR and executive leadership.
"[Trischan] endured overt racist comments and a hostile work environment that went unaddressed despite being reported to HR and executive leadership," Wright stated.
The Suns' Response
The Phoenix Suns have categorically denied any wrongdoing in response to Trischan's allegations. Stacey Mitch, the senior vice president of communications for the Suns and Mercury, dismissed the claims as baseless and an attempt to gain a financial windfall.
"A former employee who last worked for the organization in 2023 was terminated after less than 10 months due to repeated failure to perform her job duties," Mitch commented. "This individual filed a baseless charge with a state agency and is now trying to use ESPN reporting from 2022, specific to previous ownership, to make egregious claims in order to support her ridiculous demand for $60 million from the Suns organization."
The NBA had previously suspended Phoenix Suns’ former owner, Robert Sarver, following findings of inappropriate workplace conduct. This historical context is purportedly being leveraged by Trischan in her complaint, which the Suns organization deems unfounded. A spokesperson for the Suns further explained the purpose behind the diversity council, refuting Trischan's interpretation.
"Ms. Trischan's claims regarding the diversity council are misleading. The purpose of the diversity council, which is comprised of the entire executive team and other leaders in the organization, is to listen to the diversity data and information on DE&I initiatives to continue to further the organization's DE&I commitment," the spokesperson clarified.
Organizational Changes and Commitment
The organization has undergone significant changes, including the resignation of former team president and CEO Jason Rowley in February 2023 and the finalization of Mat Ishbia's purchase of the team later that month. Despite these transitions, the Suns have reiterated their commitment to creating a positive work environment.
"To be clear, this individual is making false claims in an attempt to gain tens of millions of dollars," Mitch asserted. "We are confident the courts will find no merit to these claims and quickly resolve this matter. The Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury are creating a world-class organization for every employee. We will not let opportunists succeed in their attempts to manipulate the media and use years-old reporting to seek financial gain."
The Suns have agreed to participate in the ongoing review by the Arizona Civil Rights Division (ACRD), expressing their confidence that the review will vindicate the organization.
"The Suns continue to participate in the [Arizona Civil Rights Division] review in good faith. We are confident that after the ACRD completes its review of Ms. Trischan's charge, the ACRD will confirm that Ms. Trischan's claims are factually and legally baseless," a spokesperson for the Suns stated.
As the case unfolds, both sides remain entrenched in their positions, with the outcome likely to be closely watched not only by those within the sports community but also by broader employment and legal sectors. Trischan's allegations and the Suns' firm denials paint a picture of a contentious dispute where the facts and interpretations are hotly contested. The resolution of this case will undoubtedly impact the ongoing discussions around workplace culture and accountability in professional sports organizations.