A lawsuit filed against Henry Schein Inc., a global health care distributor, alleges wrongful termination and discrimination based on gender orientation. Carmen Jane filed the complaint on Dec. 23, 2024, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York, naming defendants Seema Bhansali, David Kochman, Archana Narayanan, and Henry Schein, Inc.
The lawsuit claims Jane was subjected to workplace discrimination and retaliation during her tenure at Henry Schein Inc., where she was employed as a Diversity and Inclusion Manager from March 7 to June 20, 2022.
According to the complaint, Jane, who identifies as a transgender woman, experienced discriminatory behavior, including overhearing a transphobic joke during the company's National Sales Meeting in Dallas in June 2022.
She also reports an inappropriate comment made by a male colleague about her appearance.
Jane claims that after reporting the incidents to her supervisor, Seema Bhansali, who appeared dismissive and disengaged during their conversation, she was terminated under the pretext of being "a poor fit."
Jane argues that this reason was a cover for retaliatory dismissal following her complaints about harassment and discrimination. The lawsuit cites violations of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as well as New York State and City Human Rights Laws.
Jane seeks compensatory damages for economic losses, including lost wages, and non-economic damages for emotional distress. She also seeks punitive damages and declaratory relief affirming that the defendants' actions violated federal and state laws.
Representing herself in the case, Jane has not indicated the involvement of additional attorneys. The case is filed under Case ID: 1:24-cv-08853-OEM-PK.