The attorneys general of California and New York have launched an investigation into the National Football League (NFL) over allegations of possible discriminatory practices, including gender and race discrimination against its employees. The move follows a number of accusations against the league, including a lawsuit filed last month by a former female manager alleging gender and age discrimination. Both investigations will focus solely on the league’s corporate offices in each state and not on specific teams or players.
The attorneys general are seeking information relating to alleged gender pay disparities, harassment, and gender and racial discrimination. Allegations of such discrimination have been raised in the past, and the league has faced numerous lawsuits. US attorney Brian Flores filed a federal lawsuit against the NFL and three teams last year over alleged racist hiring practices for coaches and general managers.
Over 30 female NFL employees have shared experiences of poor working conditions, demoralization, despite promised improvements, and legal claims involving race and gender discrimination. The NFL has said that the allegations are “entirely inconsistent” with its policies and practices and that it does “not tolerate discrimination in any form.” However, the league has faced criticism over sexual assault, harassment, and domestic abuse, with reports that the number of women who watch NFL games has fallen to 5.9 million viewers per game.
The attorneys general of California and New York are investigating allegations of sexual harassment and workplace discrimination in the NFL’s offices. If the claims are substantiated, the attorneys general will “be focusing on ensuring that reform and change is brought to the organization”.
The current investigations come after a 2021 investigation by The New York Times featuring more than 30 female NFL employees sharing their experiences working in the league. The league has pledged its support for the investigation and claimed its policies meet all legal requirements. However, if the allegations are substantiated, reform and change will be necessary to ensure discrimination and harassment are eradicated from the NFL’s offices.
