Andrea Trischan Files Complaint Against Phoenix Suns Over Alleged Wrongful Termination
Andrea Trischan, the former program manager of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) for the Phoenix Suns, has officially lodged a complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission and the Arizona attorney general's office's civil rights division. Trischan, who served in her role from September 2022 to July 2023, is seeking $60 million in damages, alleging wrongful termination and a hostile work environment.
The controversy adds another layer of complexity to the Suns' tumultuous past year, marked by the suspension of their former owner, Robert Sarver, due to findings of inappropriate workplace conduct. Trischan expressed concerns about the organization’s decision to appoint several executives accused of misconduct to a newly established diversity council, a move she communicated to Kim Corbitt, the head of HR for the Suns.
According to Trischan, her tenure with the Suns was marred by overt racist comments and a hostile work environment that she claims went unaddressed despite being reported to HR and executive leadership. Her concerns reached a boiling point in late May 2023, when she was placed on a performance improvement plan. Ultimately, she was fired in July 2023.
"[Trischan] endured overt racist comments and a hostile work environment that went unaddressed despite being reported to HR and executive leadership," stated Sheree Wright, Trischan’s attorney, underscoring the severity of her client's allegations.
Stacey Mitch, the senior vice president of communications for the Suns and Mercury, has categorically denied any wrongdoing. Mitch asserted that Trischan was terminated "after less than 10 months due to repeated failure to perform her job duties." Mitch further described the complaint as "baseless" and accused Trischan of making "false claims in an attempt to gain tens of millions of dollars."
"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," Mitch stated. "We are confident the courts will find no merit to these claims and quickly resolve this matter."
A spokesperson for the Suns elaborated on the purpose of the diversity council, which has been a significant point of contention in Trischan's allegations. "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 explained.
The departure of key figures within the organization has compounded the Suns' internal challenges. Former team president and CEO Jason Rowley resigned in February 2023, the same month Mat Ishbia's purchase of the team was finalized. Despite these upheavals, the Suns have expressed a commitment to participating in the ongoing review by the Arizona Civil Rights Division (ACRD).
"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," said a Suns spokesperson.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the Suns will be closely watched by both their fans and the broader sports community. The case not only highlights the ongoing challenges organizations face in maintaining a safe and inclusive workplace but also underscores the complex dynamics at play when DE&I leaders voice concerns.
It remains to be seen how the case will ultimately be resolved, but what is clear is that the spotlight is firmly on the Phoenix Suns, their internal culture, and their commitment to addressing the serious allegations brought forth by Andrea Trischan.